French President Emmanuel Macron announced on August 28 that France's ambassador to Niger, Sylvain Itté, is still present in the country, despite an ultimatum from Niger's military rulers.
These rulers, who seized control of the government in July, had given Itté 48 hours to leave the country. Macron revealed during a foreign policy speech in Paris that Itté was in Niger's capital, Niamey, despite the deadline set for him to depart on the previous Friday.
Macron highlighted the challenges faced by France and its diplomats in various countries, acknowledging the difficulties in Sudan and Niger. He applauded his colleagues who continue to work diligently in such challenging circumstances.
The military coup in Niger, which led to the toppling and detention of President Mohamed Bazoum and his family, has been condemned by France and neighboring nations. The French government refused to recognize the coup and expressed support for Bazoum, who was democratically elected and has shown courage by resisting resignation.
Macron stressed that France remains committed to its stance against the coup and its support for Bazoum. He criticized the coup leaders for endangering the fight against terrorism, undermining economic policies, and jeopardizing international funding that aimed to alleviate poverty. Macron emphasized the importance of an African strategy that combines neither paternalism nor weakness.
The Sahel region, located south of the Sahara, has experienced a series of military coups, creating political instability. Macron noted that these coups have led to the emergence of military governments hostile to France, which has troops stationed in the region combating Islamist groups. The situation has compelled France to maintain its stance against the coup in Niger and to reject the putschists' narrative that France is the enemy.
The European Union expressed full support for the French ambassador, while Germany raised concerns about the anti-French sentiment in Niger. Both nations emphasized their commitment to diplomatic solutions and expressed reservations about the military's actions. Photo by Jacques Paquier, Wikimedia commons.