Mali consoles France after church attack

Mali’s president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita has extended a condolence message to France following the killing of a catholic priest by armed men on Tuesday.

Francois Hollande also extended his condolences following the killing of at least 17 Malian soldiers at Nampala on July 19.

During his remarks to Francois Hollande at Elysee, president Keita called for increased efforts in the fight against terrorism following the repeated tragic incidents in France and Mali.

“I extend my sympathy to France. We are together. My country is also a victim of terrorism. Our destinies follow the same path. Accept my heartfelt condolences,” Malian president, Aboubacar Keita said.

French intervention in Mali since January 2013 has helped in reducing the influence of jihadists in the North, the situation is not yet stable as the jihadists are still in control of some areas. Francois Hollande saluted Mali’s efforts towards peace and reconciliation and has promised to stand by Mali in the fight against terrorism.