Your Excellencies from the ECOWAS, African Union, and UEMOA Commissions,
Special Representative of the UN in West Africa and Sahel,
Respected Attendees,
1. Welcome to our Second Urgent Summit on Niger’s political scenario. Your timely attendance is a testament to our shared commitment to resolving Niger’s political turmoil.
2. Our reunion today underscores our joint resolve, building on pledges from our inaugural summit. We previously expressed our united stance with Niger’s citizens and their democratically chosen President, H.E Mohamed Bazoum, denouncing the military coup.
Honored Guests,
3. We’ve previously urged the military regime to reverse its actions, imposing sanctions in hopes of reinstating Niger’s constitutional governance. Sadly, our ultimatum went unheeded. ECOWAS has also sent multiple mediation teams, with updates on the missions to be shared by General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
4. Our diplomatic efforts extended to non-ECOWAS nations like Libya and Algeria. Through these interactions, Libya and Algeria displayed their firm backing for our resolutions.
Esteemed Attendees,
5. Following our last summit’s resolution, the ECOWAS Chiefs of Defense Staff convened from 2nd-4th August 2023. The insights from this session, combined with a Memorandum from the ECOWAS Commission, will be key for our discussions.
6. This Summit is a pivotal checkpoint, urging us to reflect on our interventions’ effectiveness. Let’s emphasize diplomatic talks and negotiations. It’s essential to engage the coup leaders and restore President Bazoum.
7. We must understand that Niger’s crisis reverberates across West Africa. Upholding democracy, governance, and the rule of law, we can cultivate a peaceful and prosperous Niger.
Respected Guests,
8. I believe this Summit will carve a path towards a cohesive West Africa. Let’s capitalize on this moment for a brighter African future.
9. I appreciate your unwavering focus on this pressing matter. I’m optimistic about our discussions and believe in finding a harmonious resolution for Niger. Together, we can pave a prosperous path for West Africa.
10. With that, I declare this Summit open.
Thank you for your attention.
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