China Seeks to Mediate in Niger Crisis

The Chinese Ambassador to Niger, Jian Feng, has expressed China's intention to play a mediating role in the ongoing crisis in Niger.

This comes following his meeting with the appointed Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Mohamed Al-Amin Zein, who was chosen by rebels.

Feng, as reported by Niger's national television network RTN, stated that the Chinese government intends to provide valuable services and act as a mediator to find a political solution to the Niger crisis, fully respecting the interests of neighboring countries while taking them into full consideration.

The Chinese envoy further emphasized that Beijing consistently upholds the principle of non-interference in the affairs of other nations, a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

In late July, the Niger Armed Forces announced on national television the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum and the establishment of a National Council for the Protection of the Nation. This move was met with condemnation from leaders of most Western nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

At the beginning of August, participants in an emergency meeting of ECOWAS Chiefs of Defence Staff formulated a plan for military intervention in Niger to address the crisis.

Niger, a former French colony, has held a position as one of the last allies of Western countries in the Sahel region. Additionally, the country boasts rich uranium reserves, which France relies on for its nuclear energy supply.

French media reports indicate that nearly 15% to 17% of the uranium used in France's electricity production depends on this African nation. Presently, 1,500 French soldiers are stationed in Niger, with an additional 1,000 in Chad.