Blinken assured Bazoum of the U.S. position that a “democratically elected, civilian-led government presents the best opportunity to ensure that Niger remains a strong partner in security and development in the region,” the statement released Monday said.
“The United States calls for the immediate release of all those unjustly detained following the military takeover,” it added.
Two days after the coup, the junta named Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani head of the nation’s transitional government.
West and Central Africa have experienced a string of military takeovers in recent years.
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