Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe government has indicated that the suspension by the American administration of the issuance of tourist and student visas to Burkina Faso amounts to a form of blackmail, in response to Ouagadougou’s repeated refusals to accept the deportation of migrants deemed illegal by Washington.

According to Burkina Information Agency, on Thursday, the United States Embassy announced the suspension of certain categories of visas in Burkina Faso and referred Burkinabe citizens to Togo to obtain these documents. A few hours later, the head of Burkinabe diplomacy, Karamogo Jean Marie Traore, clarified, based on a verbal note received from the embassy, that these were tourist and student visas.

He expressed surprise at the decision, noting that it followed several attempts by Washington to pressure Ouagadougou into deporting migrants classified as illegal. The minister highlighted that the latest attempt occurred on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, just a day before the visa suspension announcement.

Karamogo Jean Marie Traore pointed out that the American side seemed to aim to leverage the free visas policy for African citizens, introduced by the President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore. He emphasized that this policy was intended for citizens who voluntarily choose to visit Burkina Faso, not for those compelled to return.

The minister reiterated that Burkina Faso is committed to being a land of hospitality and not a place for deportation. He further stated that Burkina Faso would adhere to the principle of reciprocity while maintaining a stance of friendship, fraternity, and solidarity.