French ambassador in Niger declared persona non grata by local gov.
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Niger's Minister of Foreign Affairs announces that the decision to expel the French Ambassador was prompted by a series of perceived provocations by the French government.
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French Barkhane Air Force mechanics Niamey, Niger base, on June 5, 2021. (AP)
The new Nigerien government has issued an ultimatum for the French ambassador to depart within 48 hours, AFP reported.
In a statement released on Friday, Niger's Minister of Foreign Affairs revealed that the decision to expel French Ambassador Sylvain Itte was prompted by a series of perceived provocations by the French government.
Notably, the refusal of the French ambassador to engage in a scheduled meeting with the minister and other actions that were deemed contrary to Niger's interests led to this drastic diplomatic measure.
Read more: 'Down with France, ECOWAS': Nigeriens protesting near French army base
The strained relationship traces back to suspicions that Paris has covert designs to intervene militarily in Niger, with the intention of reinstating the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum.
The expulsion of the French ambassador marks a concerning escalation in the already volatile situation in Niger.
As the clock ticks down on the 48-hour ultimatum, the fate of diplomatic relations between Niger and France hangs in the balance, raising questions about the future of the existing cooperation against the backdrop of political upheaval and security challenges.
Read more: Algeria rejects French request to use airspace for Niger attack
On July 26, Niger's presidential guard overthrew Bazoum. The guard's commander, Abdourahmane Tchiani, proclaimed himself the country's new leader.
The military chiefs of the Economic Community of West African States met to discuss options for military intervention in Niger. The goal of the meeting reportedly is to outline a plan for the intervention, its strategy, logistical aspects, and timetable.
Correspondingly, military leaders in Niger have warned against any armed intervention in their country, stressing that they will "resolutely defend their homeland."
The interim governments of Mali and Burkina Faso warned that any military intervention against Niger would be considered a declaration of war against them.
ECOWAS has resorted to implementing a full pressure campaign on the country, which included the closure of land and air borders between the bloc's countries and Niger, the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions with it, and the freezing of the country's assets in ECOWAS Central Banks.
The bloc also suspended all financial aid to Niger, froze the assets of the coup leaders, their families, and supporters, and imposed a ban on commercial flights to and from the country.
