Niamey (Agencies): In a significant geopolitical shift, Niger has transferred control of a major uranium mine, previously owned by French and Canadian companies, to Turkey. This move follows the recent visit of Turkey’s foreign, defense, and energy ministers to Niger, aiming to secure access to the West African nation’s rich uranium deposits.
The decision to revoke the mining rights of Canadian and French companies comes after Niger’s military government, which took power following a coup in July 2023, sought to reassert control over its natural resources.
The transfer of control to Turkey is part of a broader strategy to diversify partnerships and enhance economic cooperation.
Turkey’s interest in Niger’s uranium is linked to its ambitions to expand its nuclear power capabilities. The uranium from Niger will support Turkey’s growing nuclear energy sector, including the Mediterranean Akkuyu nuclear power plant, which is being constructed by Russia’s state-run Rosatom.
This development underscores the shifting dynamics in global energy politics and highlights Turkey’s increasing influence in Africa. The collaboration is expected to bring significant economic benefits to both nations and strengthen their bilateral relations.