Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a crucial meeting with representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), member states, Mauritania, and the ECOWAS Commission to address the intricate political crisis currently gripping Niger.
During the meeting, Secretary Blinken expressed his gratitude to ECOWAS for its leadership in spearheading efforts to find a resolution that upholds Niger’s constitutional order.
In a unified stance, all partners emphasised the importance of the National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland in Niger promptly releasing President Mohamed Bazoum, his family, and all individuals who have been detained unlawfully.
Secretary Blinken also outlined the measures taken by the United States to support ECOWAS in exerting pressure on the CNSP (National Council for Safeguarding the Homeland) to reinstate democratic processes.
These measures include the imposition of restrictions on over $600 million in security and development assistance, as well as the suspension of Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compacts.
