Niger: Denunciation of the military agreement with the United States

Niger, through its spokesperson Colonel-major Abdourahamane Amadou, representing the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), has issued a momentous decree regarding the presence of US military personnel and civilian employees of the US Department of Defense within its borders.

Following a series of deliberations between Nigerien officials and a US delegation, which included eminent figures like Undersecretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee and Africom Commander General Michael E. Langley, Niger declared its immediate termination of the agreement governing the status of these individuals on Nigerien territory.

Colonel-major Abdourahamane Amadou underscored that while the discussions initially revolved around the restoration of constitutional order and Niger’s diplomatic and strategic partnerships, the manner in which the US delegation conducted itself was perceived as disrespectful to Niger’s sovereignty.

Furthermore, the delegation’s inquiries into Niger’s relations with other countries, particularly Russia and Iran, were met with skepticism and concern.

Niger expressed its regret over what it deemed as attempts by the US delegation to influence its diplomatic and military alliances, reiterating its commitment to autonomy in decision-making concerning international partnerships.

The termination of the military agreement with the United States underscores Niger’s resolve to assert its independence and pursue its own interests on the global stage.

Titi KEITA