In a speech to diplomats on Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France’s ambassador to Niger would remain in the country despite pressure from the leaders of a recent coup.
Macron further expressed France’s support for Niger’s ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, praising his decision not to resign as courageous.
“I believe that our policy is the right one, based on President Bazoum’s courage and the unwavering commitment of our ambassador on the ground, who is defying all the pressure,” Macron stated.
Despite the declarations made by the illegitimate authorities, Macron affirmed that the French ambassador would not be leaving.
On August 25, the junta in Niger, which took control in a coup on July 26, ordered French ambassador Sylvain Itte to depart the country within 48 hours.
Macron also dismissed calls from certain figures in the United States and Europe for Western powers to abandon Bazoum.
“We do not recognize those responsible for the coup; instead, we stand by a president who continues to hold his position. We remain fully engaged,” Macron emphasized.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the main regional bloc in West Africa, has engaged in negotiations with the Niger coup leaders and has announced its willingness to deploy troops if diplomatic efforts fail to restore constitutional order.
Reuters/NAN
