More military aid headed to Mali

Majority in parliament votes to bump up contribution to UN effort

A broad majority of parliament has voted to send more military aid to the UN effort in Mali. Only Dansk Folkeparti and Konservative voted against the increased contribution.

Denmark will increase its presence in Mali with 30 special forces soldiers and a Hercules transport aircraft.

“We are sending a strong Danish contribution to the peacekeeping mission in Mali with both Special Forces and transport aircraft,” said foreign minister Kristian Jensen. “The aim is to stabilise the country and create the conditions for peaceful development.”

The troops will be headed to Mali in April of next year, and the Hercules is due to be sent over next October.

The current cost of the mission, 42 million kroner, will be footed by the military.