The European Union (EU) has recalled its ambassador to Niger Republic, following a dispute over the distribution of humanitarian aid in the West African country. The decision was made after Niger Republic questioned the EU’s method of delivering aid, according to AFP.
On Friday, Niger Republic accused the EU ambassador of distributing 1.3 million euros ($1.35 million) in humanitarian aid to non-governmental organizations without first informing the authorities. The country has asked for an audit of the way the funds were managed.
The EU has denied any wrongdoing, citing the 1961 Vienna Convention, which guarantees the freedom of movement of accredited diplomats. The EU had previously denounced obstacles to the movement of its envoy in Niger, specifically on September 5, 2023, when Ambassador Salvador Pinto Da Franca was restricted while traveling to the French embassy.
Since the military coup in July 2023, Niger Republic’s relations with the EU have grown increasingly tense. The Sahel nation’s military rulers have turned their backs on former colonial ruler France and have become increasingly frosty towards the EU.
The EU spokesperson stated, “The EU has therefore decided to recall its ambassador to Niamey for consultations in Brussels.” This development may further strain relations between the EU and Niger Republic, which is one of the poorest countries in the world, heavily dependent on foreign aid.
