Italy donates Niger two helicopters as part of military cooperation

Italy Tuesday donated two military helicopters to the Nigerien army in the framework of military cooperation between the two countries, news agency of the West African country reported.

“As part of the military cooperation between our two countries, we have today handed over two helicopters to Niger. Next year, there will be two others,” said Italy Defense Minister Lorenzo Guerini following a meeting with President Mohamed Bazoum in capital Niamey.

“This is only a small part of the work we are doing,” he added.

Guerini also hailed the defense and military cooperation between the two countries considering the work done and the progress achieved.

“I would particularly like to thank the armed forces of Niger for the work they are doing with courage and professionalism,” he said.

The aircraft, AB 412 type, will be used to transport troops and evacuate injured forces in the fight against terrorist groups.

Niger has been fighting terror groups including Nigeria-based Boko Haram militants in the Sahara.

Italy and Niger, in September 2017, inked a deal in Rome to develop bilateral cooperation in matters of security and defense.

Under the agreement, the European country will train and enhance the capacity of the Nigerien army.