France-Niger diplomatic tensions escalate: Ambassador declared persona non grata
In a dramatic turn of events, the military junta that seized power in a coup on July 26th has declared Sylvain Itte, the French ambassador to Niger, persona non grata. The junta has given Ambassador Itte 48 hours to leave the country, according to a statement released by the Nigerien Minister of Foreign Affairs on Friday.
Tensions Rise Between Junta and France
Tensions between the military junta and France have escalated further as the junta, which overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum, refuses to be recognized by the international community. France, along with other nations, has withheld recognition of the junta and its legitimacy.
French Embassy Declines Invitation
In response to the junta’s actions, sources report that the French embassy in Niamey declined an invitation to participate in a meeting with the Nigerien Minister of Foreign Affairs. The junta has claimed that certain actions taken by the French government under Emmanuel Macron’s leadership were contrary to Niger’s interests, although specific details were not mentioned.
Uncertain Future
The French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna, has yet to respond to the junta’s decision. It remains to be seen whether Ambassador Sylvain Itte will comply with the government of Abdourahamane Tiani’s demand, given that France does not recognize the junta as a legitimate government.
