France provides US $1.1 million worth of military support

France has provided the Republic of Congo with 600 million francs CFA (US $1.1 million) in military support, the Congolese government announced on Friday from its capital, Brazzaville. While few specifics were disclosed, the Congolese government said the contribution would be used for "the strengthening of military capacities" - part of which would include the purchase of new uniforms. According to the French ambassador to Congo, Jean Paul Taix, the contribution fulfilled one of the promises made by French Defense Minister Michele Alliot-Marie during her visit to Brazzaville in April. Taix said it would "enable the military to all wear the same uniforms and to improve the image of the military in the eyes of the Congolese people". For his part, Jacques Yvon Ndolou, Congo's presidential minister in charge of national defense, promised France that its contribution would be used appropriately. The Congolese government noted that it had a longstanding military relationship with France, its former colonial ruler. Among areas of cooperation are the training of paratroopers, soldiers and policemen; logistical support; and organisational reform. Following civil war in 1997, France helped the Congo to rebuild its army, which included military training of its officers.