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French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that despite an ultimatum from the new army leaders to vacate his post, France’s ambassador to Niger Republic remains in the coup-hit Sahel country.
During a significant address on foreign policy delivered to a gathering of ambassadors in Paris, Macron unequivocally affirmed that the French envoy, Sylvain Itte, remained engaged from Niger’s capital, Niamey. This, despite the imposition of a 48-hour ultimatum last Friday mandating his departure from the country.
“In recent months, France and its diplomatic representatives have encountered notably challenging circumstances in various nations. From Sudan, where France’s conduct has stood as an exemplar, to the ongoing situation in Niger, I extend my appreciation to Sylvain Itte and his fellow diplomats who are attentively stationed in their respective roles,” he stated.
Niger’s President, Mohamed Bazoum, was ousted on July 26th and is currently under detainment, along with his family, at the presidential palace, following a coup. This action has been denounced by both France and the majority of Niger’s neighboring countries.
On Friday, the foreign ministry of Niger announced that the French ambassador, Itte, has been given 48 hours to depart the country. This decision comes in light of his refusal to engage with the new leadership and due to actions taken by the French government that are deemed as running counter to Niger’s interests.
President Macron affirmed that France’s stance on denouncing the coup and extending assistance to President Bazoum remains unwavering. Macron underscored that Bazoum’s election was a product of democracy and commended his resolute stance in not yielding to resignation amidst challenges.
Macron stated firmly, “Our policy remains unequivocal: we do not extend recognition to those who orchestrated the coup.”
