Niger: Oil cooperation, the government defends the interests of Nigeriens

Chinese oil company, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). An evaluation meeting of strengths and weaknesses was held over the weekend between Niger’s Minister of Petroleum, Dr. Sahabi Oumarou, and a delegation from CNPC.

This meeting aimed for both parties to ensure compliance with the terms set in the agreements and to address any shortcomings. Regarding these shortcomings, the Nigerien government pointed out a crucial issue related to employee compensation. According to the Minister of Petroleum, a « serious imbalance » was noted in the salary scale between Nigerien staff and expatriates.

In light of this situation, the minister expressed his disagreement and urged partners to rectify this serious salary imbalance. For the Minister of Petroleum, cooperation between Niger and China in the oil sector is strategic and important, requiring both sides to defend their interests while maintaining their commitments.

On the issue of securing the operational site, the Nigerien minister assured that the state would enhance security measures. He emphasized that activities should continue in a win-win partnership framework and a spirit of effective collaboration. He reassured the Nigerien people of the rigorous protection of Niger’s interests.

This represents a new dynamic of cooperation established by the current authorities, aimed at forging partnerships that effectively address the needs of the country and its people. In this specific case, the government assures the implementation of appropriate measures between the two parties involved to elevate the level of cooperation for the benefit of the population.