The French government has officially initiated the withdrawal of its deployed soldiers in Niger this week.

A statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs outlines the objective of ensuring the repatriation of all French troops back to France by year’s end.

The statement underscores the critical importance of close coordination with the Nigerien armed forces to ensure the smooth execution of this evacuation process.

As inquiries into the rationale behind the French government’s decision arise, particularly in light of its earlier refusal to acknowledge the legitimacy of the military authorities, experts in international relations assert that adherence to the principles of the Geneva Convention leaves no alternative but for France to abide by this course of action.