`` Minimal and sustainable security in northern Mali can not be re-established without the clear involvement of the Algerian political and military authorities . After a military coup in March , Islamists seized two-thirds of Mali . The West African regional block has had 3,300 regional troops on standby . In the past few weeks they have been joined by French and Malian forces from neighboring countries who are also fighting Islamist militants. Troops can be based in the capital of Bamako , as a step toward ending conflict .
After a military coup in March , Islamists seized two-thirds of Mali . The West African regional block has had 3,300 regional troops on standby . In the past few weeks they have been joined by French and Malian forces from neighboring countries who are also fighting Islamist militants. Troops can be based in the capital of Bamako , as a step toward ending conflict .