France’s embassy in Niger’s capital, Niamey, is set to close indefinitely as the country prepares to withdraw its remaining military forces.
This move comes amid a sharp deterioration in relations between France and Niger following a military coup in March 2023.
A letter sent to embassy staff, confirmed by French diplomatic sources, announced the closure and the dismissal of local employees by April 30, 2024.
This decision follows a series of events that strained bilateral ties, including protests targeting the French embassy in Niamey, which were violent, the declaration of the French ambassador as persona non grata by the junta, and the imposed blockade around the embassy.
With normal embassy operations hampered and relations at a low point, France has opted to close its diplomatic mission for the foreseeable future.
