EU decides not to extend Malian army training mission

The European Union has decided not to renew the mandate of its mission to train military forces in Mali, citing the evolution of the political and security situation in the country.

The European Union training mission supported the Malian armed forces, during their 11 years in Mali at the request of the authorities, and also supported the joint force of the Group of Five in the Sahel region, which contributed to the fight against the terrorist threat, a statement by the European Commission said.

The statement highlighted that the 27 member states have decided by mutual agreement not to extend the mandate of the European Union Training Mission in Mali beyond May 18, 2024, taking into account the strategic review and consultations with the Malian authorities.

The statement noted that channels of political dialogue and security and technical cooperation remain open with Malian authorities.

The EU training mission consists of about 700 troops, from about 20 European countries, before its number was significantly reduced later.

Since 2012, Mali has been plagued by attacks by armed groups operating in the north and center of the country, killing and injuring thousands of civilians and military personnel, as well as displacing millions.