Reference Message Network reported on June 20th according to AFP's report on June 19th, the military government of Niger announced the nationalization of SOMAIR, a subsidiary of Areva, the French uranium giant. Several months ago, Areva had already lost its operational rights over this enterprise, which is also an embodiment of the strained relations between France and Niger.
The issue of uranium mining in Niger is at the core of the tense relationship between the military government that came to power in 2023 and Areva. The French government holds more than 90% of Areva's shares. Niger Radio Television stated: "Areva's actions are irresponsible, illegal, and improper; it is a company under the control of the French government, a country openly hostile to Niger... Niger has decided to maintain its sovereignty by nationalizing SOMAIR."
The television station further explained: "Through nationalization, the stocks and properties of SOMAIR will be transferred to the government of Niger." It also pointed out that stockholders will receive compensatory "reimbursements."
The report says that this event has also become an embodiment of the extreme tension in relations between France and the Niger regime, while Niger is drawing closer to other partners such as Russia and Iran. Niger has repeatedly accused France of wanting to "cultivate terrorists" to undermine its own national stability but has not provided concrete evidence. (Compiled/Arthur Lu)
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