Niger’s military junta has agreed to enter into discussions with Benin’s government, mediated by former Benin presidents, in an effort to mend relations following last year’s coup in Niger.
The coup led to the closure of borders and the cessation of operations of a China-backed oil pipeline.
The decision for talks came after a meeting between Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, and Benin’s former presidents Thomas Boni Yayi and Nicephore Soglo on June 24, according to a statement released by Niger’s government on Tuesday.
As of Wednesday, authorities from both countries have not yet scheduled a date for the meeting, as reported by Reuters.
Amid tensions escalating over the closure of borders, Niger suspended oil exports through the 2,000-km (1,243-mile) PetroChina-backed pipeline to Benin’s coast in mid-June.
The situation traces back to Niger’s July 2023 coup, which led the regional bloc Economic Community of West African States to impose sanctions on Niger for more than six months.
Since then, relations between Niger and its neighbours have been tense, with Niger accusing Benin of harbouring insurgents plotting to destabilise the Sahel nation. Benin has denied these accusations.
In June, the pipeline was sabotaged by an armed rebel group in Niger opposed to the junta, resulting in minor damage.
According to Tuesday’s statement, Tiani expressed openness to a candid dialogue with the former Beninese heads of state and accepted their proposal to ease tensions.
“He agreed to establish a commission consisting of representatives from Niger’s and Benin’s governments, as well as the two visiting former Beninese heads of state,” the statement added.
The former leaders held a follow-up meeting with Benin’s president, Patrice Talon, on Monday, they said in a separate statement.
“The president and the former presidents agreed on the need to reestablish dialogue as agreed by all parties,” it said.