Turkey boosts Mali defence ties after separatist and jihadist attacks

An aerial view of Bamako, Mali, on 25 April, as Turkey deepens security ties with Mali’s military rulers following attacks by Tuareg separatists and Al Qaeda-linked jihadists. AP

Turkey’s efforts to expand its influence in West Africa could be threatened by attacks on Mali’s military regime, as Ankara pledges support while its growing security cooperation with Bamako faces new pressure.

Ankara has strongly condemned attacks by Tuareg separatists and Al Qaeda-linked jihadists on Mali’s military government. The attacks began last weekend, killed the defence minister and handed over control of key territory.