Hommam Al Nassim 
Benin’s Minister of Energy, Samou Seydou Adambe, failed to meet with Niger’s transitional president, General Abderrahmane Tiane, to deliver a message from Benin’s president, Patrice Talon.
Minister Adambe confirmed in a statement he made to the Beninese press that General Tiani was unable to receive him to receive the message, without explaining the reasons.
Adambe visited the Nigerian capital, Niamey, to hold meetings with the Nigerien and Chinese parties regarding the pipeline used by the Chinese company “WAPCO” to export Nigerien crude oil from the Benin port of Simi.
The minister explained that Benin will continue to play its role in strengthening bilateral relations with Niger and committing to the pipeline project.
In response to the Beninese Minister’s statements, Abdoulaye Tiemogo, responsible for the Communications Cell in the Niger Presidency, announced that the Presidency would issue an official response as soon as possible.
Relations between Niger and Benin have witnessed severe tension since the coup that took place on July 26.
Despite the lifting of sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Niger still closes its borders with Benin, accusing Cotonou of harboring French military bases near the Nigerien border. French and Beninese officials have denied these accusations.
In an escalation of the crisis, Benin in April banned the loading of Nigerian crude oil from the port of Symi, but suspended this decision a few days later.
Battahli urges Libya’s partners to support dialogue among Libyans