France has expressed its backing for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its efforts to restore democracy in Niger, where a military coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last week.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Saturday that France was “in full solidarity” with ECOWAS, which has threatened to use force against the junta if it does not hand over power by Sunday.
“We support the firm position of ECOWAS, which has given an ultimatum to the coup leaders to restore constitutional order and release President Bazoum,” Le Drian said in a statement.
He added that France was ready to provide “all necessary assistance” to ECOWAS, which has already imposed sanctions and a no-fly zone over Niger.