- Thursday, February 27, 2025
Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson the Indian ministry of external affairs, remarked that India is tracking the unfolding events and maintaining direct communication with its embassy in Niger.
By: Shubham Ghosh
INDIA has said that it is closely observing the situation in Niger, assuring that approximately 250 Indians residing in the West African nation, which has been engulfed by widespread protests after last week’s military coup, remain unharmed.
Several European nations, including France, have initiated operations to evacuate their citizens from Niger due to the unrest.
In a routine press briefing, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson the Indian ministry of external affairs, remarked that India is tracking the unfolding events and maintaining direct communication with its embassy in Niger. He also emphasised that the Indian embassy is in constant contact with the Indian community residing in Niger.
Bagchi underscored that the Indian community in Niger constitutes roughly 250 individuals, all of whom are confirmed to be safe. Notably, a small contingent of 10 to 15 Indians who were in Niger temporarily, managed to leave the country on evacuation flights facilitated by France. Bagchi expressed that the situation on the ground is presently stable.
Following the military coup in #Niger, France has evacuated 992 people from the country through several rotation flights over the past two days. In addition to 560 French citizens, the flights evacuated nationals from many other countries, including Indian?? citizens. pic.twitter.com/SPP1vPnUgY
— Emmanuel Lenain (@E_Lenain) August 3, 2023
Providing further insights, Emmanuel Lenain, the French ambassador to India, conveyed through a tweet that French evacuation operations encompassed 992 individuals, encompassing not only French nationals but also citizens of various other countries, including Indians, from Niger.
Subsequent to the military coup, Niger’s newly established military government declared the reopening of its borders with its neighbouring countries, namely Libya, Mali, Chad, Algeria and Burkina Faso.
The development marks a shift in the nation’s foreign policy post-coup, emphasising re-engagement with its regional counterparts.
While Niger continues to navigate these transformative events, India remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding its citizens and monitoring the evolving situation to ensure their well-being.
(With agency inputs)
