Chadian Forces Move to Secure Mali's Kidal
by VOA News February 05, 2013
Chadian soldiers have begun securing the Malian city of Kidal, which was the last major stronghold of Islamist militants in the country.
French officials say Tuesday about 1,800 Chadian soldiers have begun entering the city. The move comes about a week after French-led Malian forces took control of Kidal's airport.
Earlier, a secular Tuareg rebel group, the MNLA, seized control of Kidal itself.
The French defense ministry says French air strikes have hit 25 Islamist targets in northern Mali in recent days.
France, which launched its Mali intervention last month, has announced plans to gradually withdraw its forces and turn control of recaptured cities over to the Malian army and an African-led military force.
On Monday, French officials announced plans to begin withdrawing the bulk of their troops from the fabled city of Timbuktu.
In another development, international organizations and officials from Mali are meeting in Brussels on Tuesday to discuss efforts to stabilize the country.
The United Nations, European Union, African Union and the Economic Community of West African States are among about 45 delegations taking part in the meeting.
The group is discussing humanitarian and human rights efforts, as well as the political process in Mali, where the crisis began last year when soldiers overthrew the president. Interim leader Dioncounda Traore wants to hold new elections in July.
Another key item is the progress of the African intervention force due to take over from French troops.
The European Union is working on plans to send hundreds of trainers to help Mali's military. So far, 17 European countries have pledged to contribute to the training force.
The United States is assisting in support efforts. A U.S. Defense spokesman says as of Sunday, U.S. military C-17's had completed 30 flights into Mali, transporting personnel and tons of equipment.
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said Monday that French warplanes were continuing bombing raids on supply routes and training centers in the remote desert of northeastern Mali. He told French radio that the objective is to make it impossible for the rebels to stay in northern Mali long-term.
The March 2012 coup in Mali allowed the MNLA and Islamist groups to take control of the north. The Islamists then seized full control of the region and imposed strict Sharia law with measures that included a ban on music and forcing women to wear veils.
Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.
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