Cooperation between Niger and Türkiye reached a significant new phase during the official visit of Nigerien President, General Abdourahamane Tiani, to Ankara on Thursday. This journey marked the Nigerien head of state’s first visit outside Africa since assuming power, culminating in the signing of multiple pivotal agreements spanning security, economic development, healthcare, education, and diplomatic relations.
Following their discussions at the presidential palace, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and General Abdourahamane Tiani formally endorsed several collaborative frameworks. These included a protocol on higher education for the 2026-2030 period, the establishment of a Joint Economic and Commercial Commission (JETCO), an accord pertaining to the management of the Niger-Türkiye Friendship Hospital, and a memorandum for diplomatic cooperation.
The Turkish President underscored both nations’ shared ambition to broaden their collaboration across vital sectors such as defense, energy, mining, agriculture, trade, and investment. He also announced the implementation of a new mechanism designed to stimulate business opportunities between Ankara and Niamey.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to supporting African nations confronting security threats, particularly within the Sahel region. He spoke of enhanced cooperation in military training and the exchange of intelligence expertise, emphasizing that Ankara’s African policy is founded on principles of mutual respect, equality among partners, and reciprocal benefits.
The Turkish leader further highlighted several of Türkiye’s accomplishments in Niger, including the Niger-Türkiye Friendship Hospital, various irrigation and rural development initiatives, and the educational endeavors of the Maarif Foundation. He noted that nearly 500 Nigerien students are currently pursuing their higher education in Türkiye.
For his part, Abdourahamane Tiani lauded the relationship as having become strategic for his nation. He recalled the substantial growth in ties between the two countries since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Niger in 2013. The Nigerien President also acknowledged Ankara’s crucial support in the ongoing fight against armed groups in the Sahel, asserting that this cooperation has significantly contributed to bolstering Niger’s stability and security capabilities.