France said on Saturday it was considering its response after Burkina Faso broke off diplomatic relations.

Burkina Faso said on Friday it had severed links with its former colonial ruler after years of worsening ties over security, sovereignty and alleged foreign interference.

The French foreign ministry said in a statement that it “regrets” Burkina Faso’s decision and urged French nationals in the West African country "to exercise heightened vigilance".

Burkina Faso Communications Minister Gilbert Ouedraogo said the decision took effect on Friday and accused France of supporting "subversive networks" and "terrorists", charges that France has previously denied.

"The essential conditions for promoting relations based on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, respect for the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, and national sovereignty are not in place," Ouedraogo said.

Human and cultural ties

The Burkinabe authorities stressed, however, that the decision concerns only the institutional framework of diplomatic relations between the two states and does not affect the historical, human, cultural and social ties between the Burkinabe and French peoples.

The government also said it would ensure the protection of French nationals living in Burkina Faso and safeguard their interests.

It called on citizens to show “responsibility, restraint and civic-mindedness” toward them and all expatriates living in the country, in strict compliance with national laws.