Flag of Niger
The Flag of Niger has been the national symbol of the West African Republic of Niger since 1959, a year prior to its formal independence from France. It uses the national colors of orange, white and green, in equal horizontal bands, with an orange roundel in the center. The flag forms one of the official national symbols of the Republic of Niger, with the coat of arms of Niger, the National Anthem ("la Nigérienne"), the crest (used in the center of the coat of arms), and the motto: ""Fraternité, Travail, Progrès"". These form Article 1 of the first part of the 1999 Constitution of Niger. The flag is similar to the Flag of India, although the ratio, shade of orange, and symbol in the center differ.
France–Niger relations
Nigerien national culture, made up as it is of a diverse group of pre-colonial national cultures, has been greatly influenced by French culture. The French language continues to be the official language of the Republic of Niger. Cultural centers, such as the Centre culturel franco nigérien Jean Rouch in Niamey and the Centre culturel franco nigérien de Zinder in Zinder provide major institutions for the growth and promotion of French culture in Niger, as well as promoting Nigerien culture to a French audience. Niger is a founding member of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie.