Spain’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares, met with the Prime Minister of Niger’s deposed government to discuss recent events and regional responses. The discussions highlighted Spain’s readiness to support Niger during this turbulent period and underscored the commitment of the European Union to a peaceful and constitutional resolution in West Africa.
The two leaders reviewed the evolving situation in Niger and considered the decisions taken by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The talks also focused on regional stability, the protection of civilians, and the restoration of lawful governance in the country.
Albares conveyed Spain’s endorsement of ECOWAS sanctions targeting individuals and organizations associated with the Niger coup regime. The aim, he explained, is to press for a return to constitutional order while upholding international norms that defend democracy and rule of law in the region.
During the engagement, which took place as part of ongoing consultations about Niger’s political crisis, the minister reiterated the importance of the immediate release of Nigeria’s democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum, together with his family. He stressed that Spain supports efforts to reestablish constitutional channels and lawful governance and indicated that bilateral cooperation with Niger would be reassessed in light of progress toward these goals.
In discussing future steps, officials noted Spain’s willingness to align its support with Niger’s return to a constitutional framework and with ECOWAS directives. The dialogue emphasized a shared commitment to democratic norms, regional integration, and the well-being of Nigerien citizens, while recognizing the broader implications for regional security and the international community’s role in promoting stability in West Africa.
Both sides agreed to continue high-level dialogue, maintain coordinated measures with partners in the EU, and monitor developments closely. The conversations reflected a broader international emphasis on peaceful resolution, respect for constitutional processes, and the protection of basic freedoms in Niger during a critical moment in its political evolution. The discussions also served to reiterate the international community’s expectation that Niger adheres to regional commitments and strives for a prompt and legitimate restoration of its elected leadership while safeguarding regional peace and security.