EU to fund Sahel force

THE EU has pledged 50 million euros (R718m) to set up a joint African military force.

Yesterday, EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the funds would help pay for troops to fight terrorism, cross-border crime and illegal immigration. Mogherini, who spoke from Mali, said: “Stability and development of the Sahel region are crucial, not only for Africa, but also for Europe.”

The foreign affairs chief added that funds would be awarded to help fight jihadists.

“This contribution will arrive very quickly, and I hope it will set out the right path to other partners of the Sahel G5.”

Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso are collectively referred to as the Sahel G5.

In March, plans were given the green light to create a force of 5 000 troops. But, on Monday, Mali’s foreign minister announced that the G5 leaders had decided the complement should be doubled. teleSUR –