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Written question asked by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative) on Thursday, 14 September 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 28 September 2023. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Thursday, 28 September 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

West Africa: Politics and Government

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to support democratic (1) government, and (2) processes, across West Africa following the recent military coups in Niger and Gabon; and what discussions they have had about this matter with the government of France.

Answer

The UK condemns in the strongest possible terms attempts to undermine democracy, peace and stability in Niger. We stand firmly with the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in calling for the restoration of democracy in Niger.

On Gabon, the UK condemns the unconstitutional military takeover and calls for the restoration of civilian rule. We support efforts by the AU and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) to hold Gabon to account and welcome Gabon's partial suspension from the Commonwealth. We will work with the Commonwealth Secretary-General to uphold Commonwealth values and call for a restoration of civilian and democratic rule in Gabon.

We regularly discuss these issues with a range of regional and international partners, including France. The Foreign Secretary spoke to the French Foreign Minister about Niger in August. Officials have regular discussions with French counterparts in Paris, London and at post.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL10186
Session
2022-23
Subjects
France Politics and government Niger West Africa Gabon
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk