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France may switch to joint use of military bases in Africa with allies — Defense Staff

The military official also said that "further reductions of military personnel" is possible," but assured that "this should not significantly affect their combat readiness"

PARIS, March 15. /TASS/. France intends to switch to the joint operation of military bases in Africa with its allies, including the US, Thierry Burkhard, Chief of the Defense Staff of France, said during the closed hearing at the National Assembly National Defense and Armed Forces Committee.

The report on the meeting, which took place on January 31, was published on the National Assembly website. During the meeting, Burkhard told the lawmakers that the "joint use of military bases together with the US and other partners" will allow France to "maintain the minimal necessary presence." At the same time, Burkhard underscored that "the establishment of joint military bases depend on the consent of partner states."

The military official also said that "further reductions of military personnel" is possible," but assured that "this should not significantly affect their combat readiness."

According to AFP, French troops are currently deployed in Senegal (450 troops), Cote d’Ivoire (600), Gabon (400) and Chad (1,000). In addition, about 1,500 troops are deployed in Djibouti. Previously, French President Emmanuel Macron announced his decision to reduce the military contingent in Gabon, Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire.

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