In an interview with Novosti on the sidelines of the first ministerial conference of the Russian-African Partnership Forum in the Russian city of Sochi, Abarshi said: “As for French companies, the French state has announced through its president that it does not recognize the current authorities in Niger. More than a year has passed, and Paris’s position has not changed. Do you consider it possible that we, the State of Niger, allow French companies to continue extracting our natural resources?
He added that there is only one uranium mine that is actively exploited at the present time.
He said: “The Sumayer Company, which is working on extracting uranium in Arly, and there is also the Chinese company CNNC, whose mining site is still inactive yet, but it will return to work soon.” Finally, the “Sumida” company is now building a uranium extraction mine in Dasa in cooperation with the Canadian “Global Atomic” and “Subamin” companies from Niger.”
The Minister called on Russian companies to explore and extract natural resources, including uranium, in the country.
The first ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum was held last Saturday and Sunday in the Sirius Federal District near the Russian city of Sochi, with the participation of foreign ministers from 40 African countries, to discuss the implementation of the decisions of the second Russian-African summit, which was held in the summer of 2023 in St. Petersburg.
Source: Novosti
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**Interview with Niger’s Minister of Natural Resources, Abarshi**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Minister Abarshi. Thank you for joining us. You mentioned the current stance of France regarding the new authorities in Niger. With Paris refusing to recognize your government, can you elaborate on how that affects the operations of French companies in your country?
**Abarshi:** Thank you for having me. The situation is quite clear. Since the French state continues to disregard our legitimacy, we cannot allow their companies to exploit our natural resources. It’s a matter of sovereignty and respect for our new governance.
**Interviewer:** You highlighted that the only currently active uranium mine is operated by the Sumayer Company. Are there plans to increase domestic and foreign investment in uranium extraction?
**Abarshi:** Absolutely. Our goal is to attract more investment, not just from Russian companies, whom I encourage to participate actively, but also from other international partners who respect our government and our goals. The potential is immense, and we must utilize our resources sustainably.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of sustainable resource management, how do you envision the collaboration with companies like the Chinese CNNC and Canadian Global Atomic moving forward?
**Abarshi:** Collaboration with these companies is crucial for our development. The CNNC is preparing to resume operations soon, and the partnership with Global Atomic and ”Subamin” on the new Dasa mine represents a significant step towards improving our economic landscape and providing energy security.
**Interviewer:** The first ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum attracted ministers from 40 African nations. How do you see this collaboration impacting Nigeria’s relations with the West, especially considering the current geopolitical climate?
**Abarshi:** The conference signifies a turning point for African nations to assert their rights and foster new partnerships that align more closely with our interests. While it’s essential to maintain relations with Western nations, the realities of today compel us to diversify our alliances and pursue partnerships that prioritize our sovereignty and development.
**Interviewer:** Given these developments, how do you think the citizens of Niger view the potential partnerships with Russia compared to the longstanding ties with France?
**Abarshi:** That’s a crucial point. Many Nigeriens are eager for change and new opportunities. As we strengthen ties with Russia, there will naturally be debates about our historical relationships with former colonial powers like France. I encourage open discussions on this matter, as it reflects our people’s aspirations for a more independent future.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Abarshi, for your insights. for our readers, what are your thoughts on Niger’s decision to pivot towards Russia amidst tensions with France? Do you believe such a shift in foreign relations could provide a sustainable path for Niger’s future?
**Abarshi:** I invite readers to engage in this discussion. The path we choose will shape our nation’s future in profound ways. It’s time for us to redefine relationships that work for our people and our national interests.