The African Union has lifted its suspension of Mali as it works on plans to send a military force to the West African nation.

AU officials say Mali is again allowed to participate in all the organization's activities and meetings.

The AU suspended Mali in March after a group of soldiers staged a coup just weeks before a presidential election. Islamic extremists with ties to al-Qaida control northern Mali. Those militants have carried out public executions and whippings in their drive to enforce strict Islamic law. Mali's interim government has asked for help in driving them out.

The AU plans to intervene with force in Mali with help from the United Nations, the European Union and the Economic Community of West African States.

AU chief Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma says the AU will leave no stone unturned until Mali's government fully regains control of the entire country and defeats terrorism.