In a coordinated effort to address the crisis in Niger, both the United States and France have expressed their support for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) initiatives while raising concerns over the detained President Mohamed Bazoum’s well-being.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, while speaking on Thursday, emphasized the importance of ECOWAS’ role in advocating for the return to constitutional order in Niger. Although not explicitly endorsing ECOWAS’ call for military intervention, Blinken affirmed that the organization is instrumental in underlining the necessity of restoring constitutional governance. He stated, “We very much support ECOWAS’ leadership and work on this.”
Blinken also addressed the health and security of detained President Bazoum, expressing deep concern for his welfare and emphasizing the responsibility of the military leaders for his safety. He reiterated the US stance that military force should be a last resort and that diplomatic efforts should take precedence in resolving the crisis.
Similarly, France condemned the ongoing coup attempt in Niger and the detention of President Bazoum and his family. At an ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit attended by Nigerien Foreign Minister Hassoumi Massoudou and several West African leaders, France’s position was reaffirmed. The presidents of Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo collectively emphasized their determination to restore constitutional and democratic order in Niger while securing the release of President Bazoum and his family.
France’s support extended to all the conclusions adopted at the ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit held on August 10, 2023, underscoring the unity and commitment of the West African community in addressing the crisis and seeking a peaceful resolution.
