France would like the African-led mission to become a UN peacekeeping operation as soon as possible.

BBC: Mali sets 7 July election date, says minister

The French have said they are planning to start withdrawing their 4, 000 soldiers next month, and would like the African-led contingent to become a UN peacekeeping operation.

BBC: Mali conflict: 'Many die' in Ifoghas mountain battle

France has said it wants to start withdrawing its 4, 000 soldiers from its former colony next month - and would like the African-led mission to become a UN peacekeeping operation.

BBC: Mali: Islamist incursion in Gao 'repelled'