France denies rumours of conspiracy with Boko Haram against Cmr

The French embassy in Cameroon has denied any secret activity against Cameroon in its declared war against Nigerian Islamist sect, Boko Haram.

In a statement published on Tuesday, following 'some baseless media reports', it condemned in the strongest terms, attacks by the terrorist movement in northern Cameroon, near the Nigerian border.

France restated its solidarity with the Cameroonian authorities in the fight against terrorism, in accordance with human rights, paid tribute to Cameroonian soldiers killed in combat against Boko Haram and mourned with families of civilian victims and soldiers fighting against terrorism.

Contrary to some local media assertions which allude to some negotiations with Boko Haram behind the scenes, the French embassy affirmed that President François Hollande has not met with Cameroonian officials during his recent visit to Chad in July.

He said France is engaged with Cameroon, Nigeria, Niger and Chad in the fight against the threat that Boko Haram represents for peace and security in Africa.

Its commitment aims at supporting efforts by the concerned states to restore security and ensure conditions for sustainable development of the affected areas, for the benefit of the people.

Welcoming the mobilization of countries in the region to provide a coordinated response to criminal acts by the sect, including through a multinational force, France encouraged these countries to continue their joint efforts, particularly during the Abuja meeting for safety in Nigeria, scheduled for September 3, 2014 and to which it announces its participation.