Turkey a global actor in Mali

Turkey has a significant role in Mali as a global actor, said Director General Issa Sow of the Department of African Affairs of Mali Foreign Ministry. Sow told the AA that Turkey made a great effort to help Mali. Assessing the decisions made in the Mali Donors' Conference held in Brussels and current issues in Mali, Sow said the European Union has promised 3.2 million euros to rebuild Mali after months of conflict. Sow said the government of Mali came together with the groups both from the north and the south for various initiatives including organizing elections currently set for July to rebuild the country. "We have all the military and financial supports to carry out the peace process as well as development plans in the next 3 or 4 years," said Sow. Sow said the presidential election would strengthen the democracy ending the protests. Since the French military intervention in Mali security issues have not been seen much while security issues have not been entirely solved in Northen Mali, said Sow adding that France has supported the government with its reinforcement troops to provide security in the region. -Mali is aware of Turkey's support- Sow said Mali was aware of Turkey's support adding that Turkey carried out important activities in Africa. "Africans are particularly aware of the assistance provided to Somalia and the role Turkey plays in the region. Turkey has also a great deal of experience in protecting historical artifacts. Mali is an important market to invest in. The two countries should improve cooperation," Sow said.