Change of Command at EUTM Mali

July 19, 2017 Leonor Hubaut

(B2 in Bamako) The headquarters of the European training mission of the Malian army (EUTM Mali), in Bamako, was the scenario chosen for the change of command ceremony celebrated on Wednesday July 12, between the two Belgian generals, Peter Devogelaere and Bart Laurent. This is the first time the event has taken place in the Malian capital, and not at the Koulikoro training camp. The work in the yard had to be completed, in extremis, the day before.

Belgium retains command

Belgian General Peter Devogelaere handed over the torch to his compatriot Bart Laurent. " Above all, I am committed to maintaining the good course taken by my predecessors. We will continue to support Mali in its reconstruction and the training of its armed forces assured the new mission commander. Read : EUTM Mali will focus on the G5 Sahel (Bart Laurent)

*The handing over of the European flag to general "rising" Bart Laurent (Credit: MOD Belgium)*

A ceremony under the chairmanship of the MPCC

Symbolically, the Director of Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), General Esa Pulkkinen, presided over the ceremony. He warmly thanked Peter Devogelaere for his work. " During your time as Commander, EUTM Mali has made considerable progress. You have been very active (...) and you have ensured that the mission is involved in all the important forums. »

*During the ceremony, General Pulkkinen presents a CSDP medal to the outgoing Belgian general. (MOD Belgium)*

Tribute to the Portuguese officer killed

If everyone wanted to pay tribute to the Portuguese soldier killed during the terrorist attack on Le Campement in Kangaba, near Bamako, General Devogelaere's intervention was the most emotional. Turning his back on the political floor who came to attend the ceremony, he spoke directly to his men, in English, with sobs in his voice. Read : Terrorist attack in Mali. A tragic reminder of reality (Mogherini) et Terrorist attack on Le Campement, Europeans (and Malians) reacted well (V10)

Medals awarded to Malians

During this ceremony, officers from the Malian army and security services received – which is very rare – the medal for support for the Common European Security and Defense Policy (CSDP) as well as a Certificate of recommendation.