Niger and Turkey signed four official agreements during meetings held in Ankara. The discussions emphasized expanding cooperation between the two countries in education, economy, health, and diplomatic training.
Details of the Agreements
The signed documents include a higher education cooperation protocol covering the 2026-2030 period, a joint declaration on establishing a joint commission for economic and commercial cooperation, a protocol on the joint operation and expansion of the Turkish-Nigerien Friendship Hospital, and a memorandum of understanding between the Diplomacy Academy under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Institute of Diplomatic and Strategic Studies in Niger.
Before the signing ceremony, the parties held bilateral and inter-delegation meetings, followed by a joint press conference.
Other Topics Discussed
The talks also covered defense industry, security, energy, mining, trade, and investment. It was conveyed that economic contacts between the two countries extend beyond the signed agreements, encompassing a broader area of cooperation.
It was shared that Turkey operates 12 schools in Niger, educating more than 1,700 students. Additionally, approximately 500 Nigerien students are enrolled in universities in Turkey.
Tiiani’s Visit and Historical Relations
Abdourahamane Tiiani, who led the Nigerien delegation, made his first official trip outside the continent since taking power in 2023. The delegation included 10 ministers.
Tiiani noted that relations with Turkey date back to the Ottoman period, with diplomatic ties established in 1966. He also stated that his 2013 visit to Turkey marked the beginning of a new era in bilateral relations.
Emphasis on Security, Hospital, and Defense
Tiiani highlighted that the Turkish-Nigerien Friendship Hospital primarily serves vulnerable groups, especially women, and welcomed the protocol for its expansion. He noted that the Nigerien army has been strengthened with Turkish-made vehicles and military systems, contributing to security and stability.
It was also noted that Turkey is a leading defense supplier in the Sahel region, with Bayraktar TB2 and Akıncı drones among the most requested systems by African armies.
Investment Expectations
The visit was also linked to Niger’s efforts to increase Turkish investment in sectors such as uranium, gold, and oil. Thus, the Ankara meetings stood out not only as a diplomatic visit but also as an economic and security-focused rapprochement.
