Niamey-Paris Strain: Macron Reaffirms Position in Latest Address
In an address to diplomats in Paris on Monday (Aug. 28), President Emmanuel Macron of France reinforced his government’s unwavering stance on the Niamey situation. Amid the ongoing differences, Macron underscored his country’s condemnation of the coup and expressed solidarity with Mohamed Bazoum and ECOWAS.
Macron remained resolute, stating, “Our chosen path is the correct one. Its effectiveness relies on President Mohamed Bazoum’s resilience and the dedication exhibited by our diplomats and our on-ground ambassador, who persists despite mounting pressures.” His message was conveyed to a gathering of French diplomats in the capital.
The situation escalated further when the Nigerien Foreign Ministry sent a missive on Friday (Aug. 25) to French Ambassador Sylvain Itte, instructing his departure from Niger within 48 hours. The letter accused Itte of disregarding a meeting invitation extended by the ministry, while also highlighting “actions by the French government that run counter to Niger’s interests.”
Following the toppling of President Bazoum on July 26, a chorus of voices, including France, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the United Nations, has called for his reinstatement.
Macron affirmed, “We do not validate the actions of the coup plotters; instead, we stand by a president who has not relinquished his role. Our commitment remains steadfast. Furthermore, we lend our support to ECOWAS’ diplomatic endeavors and, if necessary, military initiatives—a collaborative strategy mirroring the approach I introduced last February.”
ECOWAS has hit the nation with sanctions, threatening to send troops.
In this increasingly complex geopolitical situation, the relationship between Niamey and Paris remains a point of contention, as Macron’s resolute address highlights the ongoing divergence of perspectives.
