French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed that French Ambassador to Niger Sylvain Itte is still in the country, despite being ordered to leave within 48 hours by the coup leaders.

Macron made the announcement during a foreign policy address to ambassadors in Paris on Tuesday. He said that Itte was participating in the meeting from Niamey, the capital of Niger.

"France and its diplomatic corps have navigated particularly challenging circumstances in several nations over recent months, showcasing exemplary conduct in places like Sudan, while also currently dealing with the situation in Niger," Macron said. "I commend your colleagues who are joining us from their respective assignments."

The President of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, was overthrown on July 26 in a coup that has been condemned by France and the majority of neighboring countries. Bazoum and his family have been held in detention at the presidential palace since the coup.

Niger's foreign ministry announced on Friday that Itte had been given a 48-hour ultimatum to depart. The ministry cited his refusal to engage with the new governing authorities and pointed out actions by the French government that were deemed detrimental to Niger's interests.

Macron underlined that France's stance condemning the coup and expressing support for Bazoum remained unwavering. He emphasized that Bazoum had been democratically elected and was demonstrating courage by resisting resignation.

"Our policy remains steadfast: we do not acknowledge the individuals who orchestrated the coup," Macron affirmed.

The coup in Niger is the latest in a series of military takeovers in West Africa. In May, a coup overthrew the government of Mali, and in September 2021, a coup took place in Guinea.

The coups have raised concerns about the stability of the region and the fight against terrorism. Niger is a major ally in the fight against terrorism, and the coup has raised questions about whether the country will be able to continue to play this role.

Macron said that France would continue to support Niger in the fight against “terrorism”.

He said that France would also work with other countries in the region to address the root causes of instability, such as poverty and corruption. (ILKHA)