The United States having failed to extend the presence of its soldiers in Niger, is discussing with the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), the body which directs this large West African country producing uranium and oil, in order to achieve an orderly and responsible withdrawal of its troops.
The Niger News Agency, relying on a press statement from the spokesperson for the American Department of Defense published yesterday April 24, 2024, indicates that as part of the ongoing negotiations between the American government and the CNSP, the U.S. Ambassador to Niger Kathleen FitzGibbon and Maj. Gen. Ken Ekman, U.S. Africa Command director of strategy, engagement and programs, will meet with CNSP officials in Niamey.
‘In the week of April 29, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict Christopher Maier and Lt. Gen. Dag Anderson, Joint Chiefs of Staff Director of Joint Force Development, will hold follow-up meetings in Niamey to coordinate this with
drawal process in complete transparency and mutual respect,’ indicated the Pentagon spokesperson quoted by the ANP.
‘Amid ongoing discussions since July 2023, we have failed to reach an agreement with the CNSP to continue this security cooperation, in a manner that meets the needs and concerns of each party,’ recognized Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict Christopher Maier, according to the ANP.
Nevertheless, the Americans reaffirmed their support for the Nigerien people in their fight against terrorism, the development of the country’s economy and hoped that the current transition would lead to a democratic regime.
Source: Burkina Information Agency