France Denies Allegations of Collusion with Nigeria Against Niger
France has dismissed claims from Niger about Nigeria being used as a base to destabilize Niger, labeling them as groundless. Both the French and Nigerian governments reaffirmed their commitment to mutual respect and regional stability, rejecting any notion of collusion with terrorist entities. Nigeria’s Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining partnerships with multiple global powers in combating insecurity.
France recently categorically denied allegations from Niger Republic that Nigeria had become a launching pad for actions aimed at destabilizing Niger. Mr. Bertrand de Seissan, the Political Counsellor to the Embassy of France in Nigeria, made clear that claims by the Nigerien military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, were without basis. Tchiani accused France of collaborating with Nigeria and utilizing its territory for nefarious activities against Niger, further alleging that France was negotiating with terrorist groups to undermine his authority.
In a detailed response, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesman Kimiebi Ebienfa, stated that there are no French troops in Nigeria orchestrating plans against Niger and emphasized that the relationship between Nigeria and France remains constructive, rooted in mutual respect. The Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, reiterated this stance, highlighting the importance of maintaining diplomatic ties with major powers, including France, in the fight against regional insecurity.
Moreover, Tuggar stressed that solutions to regional insecurity necessitate a collaborative approach involving partnerships with various countries to address pressing challenges stemming from neighboring countries. He firmly asserted that any external pressures to alter Nigeria’s international relationships would be disregarded, emphasizing the incorrectness of undermining Nigeria’s diplomatic autonomy.
The diplomatic tensions between Niger Republic and France surfaced with claims made by Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, suggesting that Nigeria was implicated in efforts to destabilize Niger through cooperation with France. Such allegations arise in the context of ongoing security challenges in the Sahel region, where jihadist violence has escalated. The responses from both the French and Nigerian governments highlight their long-standing diplomatic relations and commitment to regional stability, despite assertions of collusion that remain unsubstantiated.
In conclusion, both the French and Nigerian governments have firmly rejected the allegations of collusion aimed at destabilizing Niger. They underscore the importance of their diplomatic relationship, emphasizing mutual respect and collaboration in addressing security concerns. The conversations surrounding these allegations reflect the complexities of regional relations, especially in the face of terrorism and insecurity that challenges multiple nations in the Sahel region. As both countries look to the future, maintaining open channels of communication will be crucial in fostering stability amidst escalating tensions.
Original Source: punchng.com
