Niger

More information about Niger is available on the Niger Page and from other Department of State publications and other sources listed at the end of this fact sheet.

U.S.-NIGER RELATIONS

The United States established diplomatic relations with Niger in 1960, following its independence from France. U.S. relations with Niger since its independence have generally been close and friendly. In 2010, a military junta took power after overthrowing the former president, who had tried to extend his rule unconstitutionally. A new president was inaugurated in 2011, returning Niger to constitutional, civilian rule. A poor 2011 harvest, the violence in Libya, and the security threat from al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and the Nigeria-based group Boko Haram have complicated the government's efforts to improve Niger's economy, strengthen governance, and address human rights. The United States has commended Niger for its actions to consolidate and advance democratic institutions in its own country and to promote stability in the region, including its support for refugees who have fled the 2012 turbulence in neighboring Mali.

U.S. Assistance to Niger

U.S. foreign assistance to Niger plays a critical role in preserving stability in a country vulnerable to political volatility and food insecurity. U.S. assistance seeks to continue to improve food security, strengthen reproductive health and child nutrition services, support productive agricultural enterprises, promote good governance, and strengthen military education and training.

Bilateral Economic Relations

Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world. Its largely agrarian and subsistence-based economy is frequently disrupted by extended droughts common to the Sahel region of Africa. U.S. exports to Niger include rice, vehicles, food-preparation goods, machinery, and fats and oils. The primary import from Niger to the United States is mineral fuel (oil). Niger is eligible for preferential trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act. The United States has a trade and investment framework agreement with the West African Economic and Monetary Union, of which Niger is a member. Niger has signed a bilateral investment agreement with the United States.

Niger's Membership in International Organizations

Niger and the United States belong to a number of the same international organizations, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization.

Bilateral Representation

The U.S. Ambassador to Niger is Bisa Williams; other principal embassy officials are listed in the Department's Key Officers List.

Niger maintains an embassy in the United States at 2204 R Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202-483-4224).

More information about Niger is available from the Department of State and other sources, some of which are listed here:

Department of State Niger Page
Department of State Key Officers List
CIA World Factbook Niger Page
U.S. Embassy: Niger
History of U.S. Relations With Niger
Human Rights Reports
International Religious Freedom Reports
Trafficking in Persons Reports
Narcotics Control Reports
Investment Climate Statements
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative Countries Page
U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Statistics
Millennium Challenge Corporation
Library of Congress Country Studies
Travel and Business Information