The prime minister appointed by the military regime in Niger said on Monday that discussions are “underway” for the “swift” withdrawal of French forces stationed in the country, hoping that at the same time “cooperation” with France will be maintained, he said. Agerpres with reference to AFP.

Recalling that the government in Niamey denounced the military agreements with Paris, Ali Mahaman Lamin Zein said that the French forces “are in an illegal position” and estimated that “current discussions will allow the withdrawal of these forces very quickly.”

“What interests us, if possible, is to maintain cooperation with a country with which we have a lot in common,” he added at a press conference.

Diplomatic tensions are at a peak between the military junta that came to power after a July 26 coup and France, which does not recognize its legitimacy.

Approximately 1,500 French soldiers are stationed in Niger to participate in the anti-jihadist fight within the framework of bilateral military agreements.

On August 3, the generals who seized power in a coup d’état denounced several of these agreements. One such text, according to the military, contained a message for a month.

On the other hand, Niger revoked the immunity and diplomatic visa of French Ambassador Sylvain Itte and demanded his expulsion.

France, which regularly affirms that it does not recognize the new authorities in Niamey, however, has made it clear that it has no intention of enforcing the rulings, regardless of whether the soldiers or the ambassador are involved.

On Monday, Prime Minister Zeine said the French ambassador had shown “disrespectful behavior” by refusing to respond to an invitation to meet with the authorities on August 25.

At the end of last week, tens of thousands of people demonstrated in Niamey, demanding the withdrawal of French troops. (Agerpress)