China: President Bazoum is Our Friend

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced today that it believes Niger and the countries in the region have the wisdom and capability to find a political solution to the current situation. The ministry stated, "President Bazoum is a friend of China. We hope to ensure his personal safety and that the relevant parties in Niger will handle their disagreements peacefully through dialogue, based on the fundamental interests of the country and the people," without specifying the regional countries it refers to. Hundreds of supporters of the military council in Niger organized a rally in the capital, Niamey, today in protest against sanctions imposed by West African countries, coinciding with regional defense ministers nearing the conclusion of talks about a possible intervention to restore democracy.