30th July, 2023
The European Union (EU) has halted its financial assistance and security cooperation with Niger following its recent military coup.
Josep Borrell, the EU’s foreign policy chief, said this in a statement.
On Friday, coup leaders appointed General Abdourahamane Tiani as president, deposing President Mohamed Bazoum.
The EU, the US, and other countries have urged for Bazoum’s unconditional release and the restoration of democratic order in the country.
“In addition to the immediate cessation of budget support, all cooperation actions in the domain of security are suspended indefinitely with immediate effect,” Borrell said.
Niger is a major recipient of Western aid and a key partner of the European Union in helping contain irregular migration from sub-Saharan Africa.
The EU also has a small number of troops in Niger for a military training mission.
The European bloc has allocated 503 million euros ($554 million) from its budget to improve governance, education and sustainable growth in Niger over 2021-2024, according to its website.
Reuters/NAN