BRUSSELS
European Union (EU) states are considering sending troops to the Central African Republic within the framework of a joint military operation in the troubled country.
The Permanent Representatives Committee (COREPER) is meeting on Friday to discuss two main options regarding the deployment of an EU force of 700-1,000 troops to the CAR.
The first option is establishing bases in some western settlements and creating secure areas among the bases through patrolling.
The second option is based on deploying a military force in capital Bangui. France in particular wants an EU presence at the airport, with French troops being moved to other areas.
France recently sent 1,600 peacekeepers to the country amid increasing violence.
A military deployment requires the approval of all member states. Although some countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Poland and Belgium have offered logistical backup to France, the issue of sending a joint military force remains a sensitive issue for the EU.
In the case that a consensus is reached, military troops could be dispatched in mere weeks.
President Djotodia was elected as interim president by the 135-member National Transitional council (NTC) in April of last year, one month after the rebel seleka coalition deposed President Francois Bozize, a Christian who assumed power through a coup in 2003.
The mineral-rich, landlocked country has since been plagued by tit-for-tat sectarian violence between self-styled Christian militia known as "anti-balaka" and former seleka fighters.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
