The Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force, GSDF have started pulling out from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, UNMISS, ending a five-year old peacekeeping mission in the country.
UNMISS Spokesman Daniel Dickinson told Bakhita Radio that the first batch was expected to leave on Monday and the other two would follow later.
The Japanese government announced the withdrawal of its troops from UNMISS in March.
Japan started contributing a contingent of 350 Ground Self-Defense to the UNMISS in 2012 to assist in construction of roads and other infrastructure.
The South Sudan government says the withdrawal will not affect the bilateral relations with Japan.
It recognizes Japan’s effort to support development programs in South Sudan.