Sahel – Consultations in Denmark on the Danish army’s possible participation in Operation Barkhane (March 1)
France applauds the consultations initiated by the Danish Government with Parliament for the purpose of deciding in the second half of 2019 whether the Danish army will take part in Operation Barkhane in Mali, with the contribution of two transport helicopters.
Security in the Sahel remains a vital challenge for the region and more broadly for European security. France will continue to support the efforts of the countries in the region to combat terrorism and the enemies of peace, specifically by supporting the Malian armed forces and the G5 Sahel Joint Force, which represents a coordinated response to terrorist groups by the countries in the region.
The solidarity and support of our European partners through Operation Barkhane and through EU missions is precious in this regard and helps develop a common European strategic culture. We particularly welcome the UK and Estonia’s contributions to Operation Barkhane.
France, Denmark and Mali are engaged in close consultations to prepare for this deployment, which would take place in late 2019, at the invitation of the Malian government.