File photo of Panamanian strongman Manuel Noriega taking part in a conference in Panama City
Panamanian strongman Manuel Noriega takes part in a news conference at the Atlapa center in Panama City in this October 11,1989 file photo. REUTERS

French authorities have agreed to extradite Manuel Noriega back to his native Panama, according to an attorney for the former Central American dictator.

Yves Leberquier said France’s Prime Minister Francois Fillon had signed the extradition agreement on July 6 and that his client was notified last week.

A Panamanian court has convicted Noriega in connection with the death of a military chief. Noriega faces 20 years in prison in the case.

After being deposed in a 1989 invasion, Noriega spent two decades in a U.S. jail. Last year, he was sent to France to face money laundering charges – he was convicted and sentenced to 7 years in prison.
It is unclear when Noriega, who ruled Panama from 1983 to 1989, would depart for his homeland.

Court U.S.