The diplomatic situation between France and Niger continues to deteriorate, with the recent announcement that the French embassy in Niamey will remain closed until further notice. The French Foreign Ministry cited several issues that led to the decision, including a blockade around the embassy and travel restrictions imposed on diplomatic staff.
These difficulties go against the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which prompted France to transfer consular activities from the embassy to consulates in the West Africa region. The move follows the withdrawal of French troops from Niger last December, which sparked speculation about relations between the two countries.
According to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the activities of the Niger embassy will now be managed from Paris. Diplomatic representatives will, however, maintain links with French nationals in Niger and will financially support NGOs working in the humanitarian sector to help local populations.
This deterioration of relations between France and Niger follows the military coup that occurred last July. At the end of August, the Nigerien military regime ordered the expulsion of French ambassador Sylvain Itté. Since then, tensions between the two countries have continued to worsen.
This decision to close the French embassy in Niamey raises many questions about relations between France and Niger, as well as the impact of this situation on French citizens residing in the country. It is essential to closely monitor the evolution of this situation and the measures taken by the French authorities to guarantee the security and protection of their nationals.
In conclusion, the closure of the French embassy in Niamey marks a new stage in the deterioration of relations between France and Niger. It is essential that the two countries work together to resolve their diplomatic differences and restore cordial and constructive relations. Such a resolution could contribute to the stability and prosperity of the West African region as a whole.