Switzerland Withdraws Staff from Cooperation Office in Niger
Published: Thursday, Aug 10th 2023, 16:40
Actualizado el: Viernes, Oct 13th 2023, 14:12
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The Swiss government has withdrawn its personnel from its cooperation office in Niger due to the difficult security situation. Three employees and one accompanying person left the African crisis country, according to the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (EDA). The Swiss government is concerned about the developments in Niger and condemns the power takeover by the armed forces. In light of the "alarming developments", they decided to withdraw the personnel. As soon as the situation allows, the personnel will return to Niger. The Swiss government will continue to support the Nigerien population, for example through humanitarian aid, but will adjust its activities to the current situation. So far, 19 Swiss citizens have left Niger, and the EDA is in contact with the remaining 14 Swiss citizens. The decision to leave Niger is voluntary, at their own risk and at their own expense. On Wednesday of last week, officers of the Presidential Guard arrested and declared the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum powerless. The commander of the Presidential Guard, General Abdourahamane Tiani, then appointed himself as the new ruler. Shortly after Tiani's takeover of power, the putschists suspended the constitution and dissolved all constitutional institutions. On Thursday, the junta formed a government of military and civilians. The same day, the West African States Community (ECOWAS) is meeting in the capital Abuja to discuss further action against the junta in Niger. An ultimatum issued by ECOWAS to the putschists to reinstate Bazoum expired at the weekend. If not, ECOWAS will take measures, which could include violence.nnnnnnnn
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