BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) A diplomat says France may increase its troop presence in Central African Republic to back an African Union peacekeeping force, going beyond protecting French interests in the country.
During a visit to Bangui on Sunday, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said the 450 French soldiers now based at the airport "will be involved in operations to restore security."
A senior French diplomat says the number of French troops could grow to 700 to back the AU force, though they will not be involved in front-line operations.
The diplomat requested anonymity because of a lack of authorization to speak on the record.
The AU peacekeeping force is expected to total 3,600 troops.
