There has been no official reaction from Mali to reports that neighbouring Ivory Coast will begin a “gradual withdrawal” of its troops serving in the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali (Minusma).
The Ivorian authorities have yet to publicly confirm the news but local media say the UN was informed of the decision through official correspondence.
The announcement comes after some 49 Ivorian soldiers were arrested in Mali in July, accused of being mercenaries.
The news also came a day after the UK announced that it was pulling out its 300-strong contingent from the peacekeeping force.