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Mali/Reply by Prime Minister Ayrault to a question

Published on January 29, 2013
Reply by Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault to a question in the Senate

Paris, January 24, 2013

You are right to reaffirm that President Hollande’s decision is a serious, courageous and necessary one. It’s true that the UN Security Council unanimously adopted, on December 20, a resolution for the implementation of an African military force, AFISMA. This force was not in a position on January 11 to stop what was happening, since the terrorists had decided to completely destabilize Mali.

France didn’t claim to be a substitute for the establishment of this multinational African force, which is currently gearing itself up. Its military command has been deployed to Bamako; in a few weeks, thousands of African soldiers will be in place and the EU is accelerating the establishment of a unit to train this international force.

President Hollande decided to commit our soldiers because if we hadn’t intervened it would have been impossible to implement the resolution of December 20 and Mali would have fallen prey to the terrorists, with all the consequences that would bring for Africa, Europe and France. President Touré asked President Hollande for help. France consulted with all its partners; they affirmed their support and their gratitude. The goal of stopping the terrorist groups from advancing has been achieved. France doesn’t intend to remain in northern Mali. The African force that is gearing itself up will replace its troops.

It’s equally important to ensure that the democratic transition takes place and that economic development continues. France and Europe have a responsibility to do everything possible to ensure West Africa’s development. Pascal Canfin is preparing for the conferences on development. François Hollande reaffirmed that this was necessary during his speech in Dakar. You recalled that the “Françafrique” of the past is fortunately over. The African continent has a bright future ahead of it. Let’s live up to this history. And show our solidarity and support to our soldiers in the difficult situation they are facing in order to ensure peace and freedom./