Niger suspends cooperation with international Francophone body

Niger suspends cooperation with OIF, the international organisation of Francophone nations, due to its ties with former colonial ruler France. The ruling junta accuses OIF of being used by France to defend French interests. Following the coup in July, Niger expelled French troops helping fight an Islamist insurgency. OIF had already suspended most cooperation with Niger due to the coup but will continue programs benefitting civilians and democracy. The junta calls for decolonizing minds and promoting national languages.