In a recent development, French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will withdraw its troops from Niger by the end of 2023. The decision comes as the 1,500 French soldiers deployed in Niger to combat terrorism in the Sahel region will “return in an orderly manner” within the upcoming months, as reported by local media.
President Macron emphasized the shift in military cooperation with Niger, stating that the country’s authorities no longer have the desire to combat terrorism. He further added that France will engage in dialogue with the military junta to ensure a peaceful withdrawal.
While France remains committed to supporting the fight against terrorism in Africa, Macron stressed that assistance would only be provided at the request of democratically-elected powers and regional authorities.
President Macron also confirmed the imminent return of the French ambassador to Niger. Previously, the military junta had demanded the ambassador’s departure following the coup, but France declined the request.
Unfortunately, the relationship between Niger and France has become strained since the coup in Niger. As a result, France has suspended visa services in Niger and facilitated the evacuation of its citizens, while Niger has closed its airspace to all French-registered aircraft.
