On Wednesday, the European Union expressed regret at “obstructions” placed in the way of its ambassador’s journey to Niger, where military have been in charge since the end of July and are currently holding elected President Mohamed Bazoum hostage.
“The European Union denounces and regrets the obstacles to freedom of movement of which the European ambassador, stationed in Niamey, was the victim this Tuesday, September 5 while he was going to the French embassy,” indicates the EU in a press release.
“Under the Vienna Convention of 1961 (on diplomatic relations, editor’s note), the Ambassador of the European Union has been duly accredited and he must, therefore, be able to carry out his mission in full respect of the said Convention.”
The incident in question was not specifically described in the news release.
The EU vehemently denounced the military coup that took place in Niger on July 26. It also suspended its budgetary assistance to the Sahelian nation and threatened to impose sanctions on those responsible.
Despite the demands of the new authorities in Niamey, who want him to leave and threaten to expel him, France, a former colonial power, continues to maintain its ambassador there.
