Elevate your local knowledge

Sign up for the iNFOnews newsletter today!

Select Region

Selecting your primary region ensures you get the stories that matter to you first.

French president marks end to C. African Republic mission

BANGUI, Central African Republic – French President Francois Hollande says the country’s mission is formally over in Central African Republic after the former colonizer’s military spent more than two years trying to stabilize the highly volatile country.

Hollande made the announcement Friday on a brief visit to the capital of Bangui before heading on to Nigeria.

France has long had a military presence in Central African Republic, and French forces upped their presence after major sectarian violence erupted in late 2013.

While Operation Sangaris is credited with saving countless lives, the French mission also has been tarnished by horrific allegations of sexual violence against children.

French authorities say they are conducting investigations into the reports and have vowed to punish anyone found responsible. About 600 French soldiers still remain in Central African Republic.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles