Niger - Q&A - Extract from the press briefing (3 January 2024)

Q: In a statement dated January 2, France announced it would be closing its embassy in Niger but that it would maintain ties with French citizens and NGOs working in the humanitarian sector there. There was no mention of the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum. Has Paris decided to end its support given the reality on the ground?

A: Our position remains unchanged. France fully supports President Bazoum and continues to call for his immediate release, as well as the release of his family, and for a swift return to constitutional order. We likewise reaffirm our unwavering support of ECOWAS with a view to finding a solution to the Nigerien crisis.