France and Mali have suspended the issuance of visas to nationals of the other country.
Malian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on X (formerly Twitter) the suspension of visa issues to French nationals.
The French foreign ministry had on Monday, placed Mali in a red zone.
“In the current context of strong regional tensions, any trip to Mali is formally discouraged. French nationals in Mali are called upon to be extremely vigilant: it is essential to stay away from any gathering and to remain regularly informed of the situation.”
Hence, the French embassy suspended issuing new visas in Bamako, the State capital.
On Wednesday, Mali’s foreign ministry said it had learned of the reclassification with surprise.
“In application of reciprocity, the Ministry suspends, until further notice, the issuance of visas to French nationals by the diplomatic and consular services of Mali in France.”
For years, France was Mali’s loyal ally in its fight against rebel fighters who have killed thousands of people and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes.
Their relationship fell out after the military seized power in Bamako in 2020.
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