NIAMEY - Niger's junta has ordered the French ambassador to leave the country within 48 hours, Xinhua quoted a press release issued by Niger's Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Ministry on Friday.
The junta decided to revoke the accreditation of the French ambassador, Sylvain Itte, following several actions contrary to Niger's national interests, said the press release.
The actions included the French ambassador's refusal to respond to an invitation by Niger's Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Minister, said the press release.
The French Foreign Affairs Ministry said on Friday night that they will not accept the request of Niger's junta, saying "the military government does not have the authority to order France to withdraw its envoys", AFP reported.
Niger's soldiers ousted President Mohamed Bazoum on July 26, hours after the president was allegedly held hostage. - BERNAMA-XINHUA