Canada PM makes surprise visit to troops in Mali

Montreal: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a surprise visit to Canadian troops deployed as part of the United Nations peacekeeping operation in Mali, he said on Saturday.

"The men and women of the @CanadianForces make immense sacrifices to serve our country and keep us safe. Today I visited with them in Mali, bringing the thanks of Canadians for all their hard work. Thank you to everyone at Camp Castor for everything you do, and merry Christmas!" Trudeau tweeted.

The premier was accompanied by Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan and Chief of the Defense Staff, General Jonathan Vance, a statement from his office said.

Trudeau also met with his Malian counterpart Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, his office said.