New York, 18 October 2022
Thank you, Mr President,
I would like to thank SRSG Wane for briefing us and welcome the Foreign Minister of Mali to this meeting.
At the outset, we express our condolence for the four Chadian peacekeepers that were killed yesterday and wish speedy recovery to those wounded. We commend the MINUSMA peacekeepers who operate in extremely dangerous conditions, and I stress my country’s full support to the mission.
Allow me to make three brief points:
First, we remain deeply concerned about the dire humanitarian and security situation facing Mali. The recent attacks in the northern regions of Menaka and Gao, perpetrated by terrorist and armed groups, have killed hundreds and displaced tens of thousands of civilians. We urge the Malian authorities to strengthen their cross-border cooperation to restore state authority throughout the country.
Human rights violations and abuses against civilians have continued to be committed by military forces, Wagner Group, and armed groups. Albania strongly condemns the use of mercenaries operating in violation of international law and perpetrating indiscriminate attacks against civilians. We urge the Malian authorities to investigate all allegations and hold perpetrators to account.
Second, we note some positive steps taken. We welcome the transitional calendar agreement with ECOWAS to return Mali to constitutional order by February 2024, and the passing of the new electoral law marks a step closer to this. We reiterate the need to facilitate a meaningful representation and inclusion of civil society, women, and youth groups. We also welcome the Agreement Monitoring Committee’s first meeting since October 2021, we urge sustained momentum to monitor the peace process and build consensus among parties.
However, overall, we regret that the implementation of the Algiers Accord has been side-lined. We must not forget that this agreement remains the best framework for addressing the root causes and resolving the conflict in northern Mali. Albania calls for a renewed commitment to the Accord to address the growing insecurity and the structural causes of instability.
Third, we are deeply disturbed that MINUSMA continues to face restrictions of movement and access, contrary to its mandate by this very Council.
Albania welcomes the Secretary-General strategic assessment of the mission currently underway. We expect this review to provide clear insight into how the mission can better adapt to deal with the current challenges and operate effectively on the ground.
In this vein, we condemn the continued detention of the Ivorian soldiers sent to support MINUSMA, and we urge the Authorities to reach consensus with ECOWAS on their release.
In conclusion Mr President, the situation in Mali remains complex, and that’s why the unity of the Council on this issue is crucial.
Thank you.
