Foreign ministers of EU member states have expressed their support Monday to launch an operation in the Central African Republic, where French troops and the African Union military are struggling to stabilize the country affected by an inter-community conflict.
"We need an EU contingent to help stabilize the Central African Republic," Carl Bildt said, the head of the Swedish diplomatic body at the monthly meeting of EU foreign ministers, AFP reports.
According to European sources, 500 European soldiers are estimated to participate in the mission of securing the capital Bangui.
Carl Bildt believes it would be "logical" that EU rapid response contingents be sent. "I think combats units should be sent. If we do not do it now, then when?" Bildt said.
EU rapid reaction units under the command of the EU Council, amount to an overall of 1,500 troops, provided quarterly by EU countries groups. Currently, the soldiers for EU rapid reaction units are made available by Romania, Bulgaria and Greece. These units have not been used at all since their creation.
At least 2,000 people have died in nearly a year in clashes occurred in the Central African Republic between Christians and Muslim militias. The violence intensified in March 2013, although the Central African Republic has been affected by instability since it declared its independence from France in 1960.
Amid the clashes, Central African Parliament has appointed Monday Catherine Samba-Panza, Mayor of Bangui, interim president until early elections are held.