France has indicated a willingness to discuss potential reparations with Niger for colonial-era massacres, though it stops short of admitting responsibility. A letter from France's UN representative, reviewed by the Guardian, expresses openness to dialogue and collaboration on provenance research and patrimonial cooperation. This marks a potential shift after over a century since French troops' actions, including the burning of villages and looting of cultural artifacts, during Niger's colonial inclusion. While not an outright acknowledgement of guilt, the offer for bilateral talks signals a possible step towards addressing historical injustices.