Protesters gather in front of the French Embassy in Niamey during a demonstration that followed a rally in support of Niger’s junta in Niamey on July 30, 2023. Thousands of people demonstrated in front of the French embassy in Niamey on Sunday, before being dispersed by tear gas, during a rally in support of the military putschists who overthrew the elected president Mohamed Bazoum in Niger. Before the tear-gas canisters were fired, a few soldiers stood in front of the embassy to calm the demonstrators. (Photo by AFP) (Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images) The two countries had been close allies until President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in July.
France has refused to recognise the coup leaders and had ignored the order to withdraw its envoy.
On Sunday, President Emmanuel Macron said ambassador Sylvain Itté would leave within days.
He also said all French troops will withdraw from Niger by the end of the year.
BBC/Jide Johnson.
