Brussels, 20 February 2023
The Council is launching today a Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) military partnership mission in Niger (EUMPM Niger) to support the country in its fight against terrorist armed groups.
The aim of the partnership mission, formally established on 12 December 2022 at the request of the Nigerien authorities, is to enhance the ability of the Niger Armed Forces to contain the terrorist threat, protect the population in the country and ensure a safe and secure environment in compliance with human rights law and international humanitarian law. EUMPM Niger will support in particular the establishment of the Centre for the Training of the Technicians of the Armed Forces, provide advice and specialised training on request to the Niger Armed Forces’ specialists, and support the creation of a new communication and command support battalion.
The Mission Commander is the Director of the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), Vice Admiral Hervé Bléjean.
Background
On 12 December 2022, the Council adopted a decision establishing EUMPM Niger with an initial duration of three years. The mission is a direct response to the request for support addressed to the High Representative by the President and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Republic of Niger of 30 November 2022.
- Niger: EU establishes a military partnership mission to support the country in its fight against terrorism (press release, 12 December 2022)
- Sahel: Council approves conclusions on the EU’s integrated strategy in the region (press release, 19 April 2021)
Source – EU Council