United States Ready to Resume Cooperation with Niger on the Condition of Swift Transition from Military Regime

U.s Secretary Of State Antony Blinken At The Diori Hamani International Airport In Niamey

In a statement made on Wednesday in Niamey, the United States expressed its willingness to renew cooperation with Niger, contingent upon the military regime that seized power in a coup at the end of July committing to a notably brief transition period.

Following the July 26 coup that ousted elected President Mohamed Bazoum, Washington suspended its cooperation with Niger. However, during her visit to Niamey, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for African Affairs held discussions with several Nigerien officials, including Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, who was appointed by the military.

The U.S. Deputy Secretary of State emphasised the necessity for the Nigerien military to announce “a deadline for a rapid and credible transition” leading to the establishment of a democratically elected government. She stated to the press on Wednesday, “We have confirmed that we are ready to resume our cooperation if the CNSP (military regime) takes the steps I have outlined.”

The military regime has proposed a maximum three-year transition period before transferring power back to civilians, with the duration to be determined through a national dialogue that will be convened imminently.

Regarding the fate of former President Mohamed Bazoum, the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Ms. Phee, indicated that they have “agreed to reach a satisfactory solution” for him, his family, and members of his government. Since the coup, Bazoum has been confined to his residence along with his wife and son, while several former dignitaries have either been arrested or fled the country.

On Sunday, Ms. Phee participated in a summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) presidents in Abuja, where the organization maintained strict economic and financial sanctions imposed on Niger following the coup. The easing of these sanctions is conditioned upon a notably “short transition.”

“I encourage the CNSP (military regime) to respond positively to the ECOWAS offer for negotiation; the United States supports the resolutions of the regional organisation,” clarified the U.S. diplomat.

Additionally, the newly appointed U.S. ambassador to Niger, Kathleen FitzGibbon, is expected to present her credentials to the authorities soon, as confirmed by Nigerien Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakary Yaou Sangaré in early December. The arrival of the ambassador further signals the United States’ commitment to engaging with Niger and fostering diplomatic relations.

 

Source: Africa News

Israeli Leaders Defiant, Vow to Continue Gaza Strip War Despite Mounting International Pressure

Israeli Leaders Defiant, Vow To Continue Gaza Strip War Despite Mounting International Pressure

In the face of increasing international pressure, including from key ally the United States, Israeli leaders affirmed on Wednesday their determination to press ahead with the ongoing Gaza Strip war, now in its third month. The conflict was sparked by the unprecedented October 7 attacks on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas, which Israeli officials claim resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals, predominantly civilians.

The war has inflicted severe devastation upon Gaza, leaving more than 18,600 people dead, with women and children constituting the majority of the casualties, according to the health ministry. Infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, has been decimated, and the scale of destruction has been described as “unparalleled.”

Despite the UN General Assembly’s recent overwhelming endorsement of a non-binding resolution calling for a ceasefire, Gaza has continued to witness fresh strikes and intense battles. Reportedly, the heaviest fighting has been concentrated in Gaza City, the largest urban center, as well as in Khan Yunis and Rafah in the south, according to correspondents from AFP.

The already dire situation has been compounded by wintery rains that have battered the territory. The UN estimates that out of Gaza’s 2.4 million population, 1.9 million people have been displaced, forced to live in makeshift tents as essential supplies such as food, drinking water, medicines, and fuel dwindle. Concerns about the spread of diseases, including meningitis, jaundice, and respiratory tract infections, have also intensified, as per the warning issued by the UN.

Ameen Edwan, a resident of Gaza, shared the harsh realities faced by the displaced population, recounting how rainwater seeped into their makeshift shelter at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital. With a shortage of nylon covers, they resorted to using stones and sand to keep the water out, highlighting the desperate conditions faced by those affected.

The World Health Organization reported that only 107 humanitarian aid trucks entered Gaza from Egypt, a significant drop from the daily average of 500 before the events of October 7. This limited flow of aid exacerbates the challenges faced by the beleaguered population, further straining their access to essential resources.

As the conflict persists, the international community grapples with finding a resolution to the longstanding crisis. The determination of Israeli leaders to continue with the war in the face of mounting international pressure further underscores the complexity and gravity of the situation, leaving the people of Gaza in a state of uncertainty and anguish.

 

Source: The New Arab

Kenyan Government Implements Measures to Boost Diaspora Investment and Employment Opportunities

Kenyan Government Implements Measures To Boost Diaspora Investment And Employment Opportunities

President William Ruto has announced the implementation of robust measures aimed at promoting local investment by the Kenyan Diaspora. Recognising the significant role that Kenyans living abroad play in the country’s development, President Ruto highlighted their contributions, particularly through remittances, which have surpassed the performance of major exports.

During the Diaspora Investment Conference held in Nairobi on Wednesday, President Ruto expressed the government’s commitment to creating a seamless network that facilitates, promotes, and supports Diaspora investment in Kenya. Emphasising the importance of harnessing the potential of Kenyans abroad, he outlined plans to leverage their knowledge, skills, and technology transfer for the benefit of the nation.

The government is implementing the Global Labour Market Strategy, aiming to facilitate employment opportunities for Kenyan youth abroad. This strategy seeks to connect skilled Kenyan workers with international job markets, enabling them to contribute to the economy while gaining valuable experience. President Ruto highlighted that this initiative would not only benefit individuals but also promote the transfer of knowledge and technology upon their return to Kenya.

In addition to fostering employment opportunities, President Ruto announced the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to attract foreign direct investments and expand job prospects within the country. The government has allocated funds for infrastructure development in six SEZs, aiming to create an environment that offers incentives to investors while enhancing Kenya’s manufacturing and export capacities.

“Our goal is to expand job opportunities both locally and abroad for our youth,” President Ruto affirmed. By promoting Diaspora investment and establishing SEZs, the government aims to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and strengthen Kenya’s position as a favourable investment destination.

The measures announced by President Ruto underscore the government’s commitment to leveraging the potential of the Kenyan Diaspora for the country’s development. By fostering collaboration and creating supportive frameworks, the government aims to harness the skills, knowledge, and financial resources of Kenyans abroad to drive economic progress and empower the nation’s youth.

 

Source: Kenya Presidency