Monday evening, a press release attributed to the transitional authorities and read on public television announced that operations for the departure of the first convoy of French troops will begin this Tuesday, October 10. And this under the escort of the Nigerien defense and security forces. For the moment, the French army has not reacted to this announcement.
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Last week, RFI exclusively announced the start of the withdrawal process of French forces, confirmed by their army headquarters. French diplomacy had also declared that discussions with the junta were underway, to ensure the technical coordination of this departure in complete safety. Discussions whose images were broadcast at the end of the week by Nigerien television.
But for the moment, the French army, which RFI tried to contact without success, has not communicated about this withdrawal.
According to the press release read on public television, a timetable for the withdrawal of French troops has been established, in agreement with both parties. Operations for the departure of the first convoy are announced for this Tuesday, under escort of the Niger FDS.
The authorities particularly call on the population to “ better collaboration for orderly and safe withdrawal. » They also ask to adopt a peaceful attitude when the convoys pass. On the other hand, the announcement does not specify the route of the French convoy, nor its destination.
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