U.S., Canada, EU hail Nigeria’s intervention in Mali

This is contained in a statement by the Spokesman in the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Ogbole Ode, in Abuja on Thursday.

The statement said that heads of mission from the four countries made the pledge when the Nigerian Foreign Minister Amb. Gbenga Ashiru, briefed them on the update of troops deployment under the auspices of the ECOWAS African-led International Support Mission in Mali (AFISMA).

They advised that the military strategy should also be pursued along with the political process, which should involve various parties in Mali.

The statement said that Ashiru informed the envoys that the crisis in Mali was an issue of deep concern not only to West Africa but to Africa, Europe and the rest of the world.

``It is against this backdrop that the military operations by the French to dislodge Islamic militants and to regain northern Mali deserved the unflinching support of the international community,’’ it statement.

It noted the uncommon international unanimity and endorsement that had greeted the military intervention by France, arising from the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution No. 2085.

The statement also said the preparations already put in place and the active support of the international community and the military mission would meet its overall objectives.