France confirmed this Monday, a few months after the decision by the president, that his troops had completely departed from the territory of Mali, Emmanuel Macron, To restate the Barkhane operation outside of the African country after nine years on its territory.
“Today at 13:00 (11:00 GMT), the last detachment of the Barkhane force, located on the territory of Mali, crossed the border between Mali and Niger. It came from the Gao operational platform transferred to the Mali armed forces. In a statement from the General Staff, “since this morning ‘ it was said.
The French Presidency headquarters stated in a parallel note on 17 February after confirming that political and operational conditions were favorable. They did not allow them to engage in finances, France, along with its African and European partners, decided to regroup the device outside of Mali.
Military logistics challenge
“France continues in the Sahel, the Gulf of Guinea and the Lake Chad region with all partners committed to stability and the fight against terrorism,” added Elysee.
The General Staff said that the departure of his troops was a “major military logistical challenge“, “exceeded in order and security, and in full transparency and coordination with all partners.”
“The deep transformation of Operation Barkhane is not limited to the end of its presence in Mali. The French armies continue to fight terrorism in the Sahel, in coordination with our African and international partners, with the logic of building together”, certain.
Macron praised the military’s ability to complete the exit in the announced time “Without stopping the fight against terrorist organizations and at the same time decisively increase the contribution to security in Eastern Europe”
9 years of operation
The Barkhane operation, which has been going on for nine years, It took the lives of 59 French soldiers.Fighting Islamist terrorist groups on the ground alongside African and European powers.
“France will continue its fight against terrorism by supporting the political, civil and military efforts of the Economic Community of West African States and the States of the region, and acting in full coordination with our partners,” Elysée said. said.
Source: Informacion
