French soldiers who left Niger head for Chad

The first French soldiers who started to leave Niger have headed to neighboring Chad, according to the National Council for the Salvation of the Motherland, formed by the rebels of Niger, Report informs referring to AFP.

"The troops based in Ouallam (western Niger - ed.) left their base today. This is an operation to send the first land column in the direction of Chad under the escort of our defense and security forces," the Council noted.

In addition, 97 French special forces soldiers took off on three flights from the capital’s airport, and logistics were also taken out. The Council assured that the withdrawal of the French contingent will continue in accordance with "the schedule agreed upon by both sides."

There were about 1,400 French military personnel in Niger: about 1,000 in Niamey, and about 400 more in the west of the African country.