BRUSSELS, 29 March 2018 / PRN Africa / -- From 26 to 28 March, European External Action Service Deputy Secretary General Pedro Serrano and EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator Gilles de Kerchove led a high-level visit Mali to enhance cooperation on counter-terrorism issues.

The mission gave the opportunity to evaluate and advance EU counter-terrorism efforts in Mali, by combining work done under the Common Security and Defence Policy, in the area of Justice and Home Affairs and through development cooperation.

They had exchanges with Prime Minister Mobido Keita and ministries in charge of foreign affairs, defence, security, justice and home affairs, economy and religious affairs. They also met with civil society and representatives from partner countries. Deputy Secretary General Serrano held meetings with the EU civilian and military missions, EUCAP Sahel Mali and EUTM Mali, including the Regional Coordination Cell which aims at supporting cross-border cooperation within the Sahel. He also visited the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission (MINUSMA) and Operation Barkhane. A visit to Mopti/Sevare gave the opportunity to assess on the ground the EU's stabilisation efforts in the region and to share views with the G5 Sahel Joint Force Commander and local authorities.

The European Union remains committed to supporting Mali in its efforts to achieving peace, social cohesion and development for the whole country, to the benefit of the wider Sahel region.

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SOURCE European External Action