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UN chief reiterates support for peace process in Mali

Xinhua, June 21, 2016 Adjust font size:

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday reiterated the world body's support for the peace accord in Mali as major rebel groups finally embraced the deal.

On Monday, the rebel Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA) signed the agreement in the African country's capital of Bamako, completing the signing process of the accord that aims at ending hostilities and launching development programs in the troubled Northern Mali, as well as restoring peace and stability in the nation.

"The secretary-general trusts that the signatory parties will ensure the swift and full implementation of the agreement, bearing in mind the many challenges that lie ahead," said a statement released by Ban's spokesperson.

On May 15, 2015, the Malian government signed the peace deal with pro-government militias as well as some of the country's minor rebel groups in absence of the CMA, which include three major rebel groups in northern Mali.

Ban also said strengthening the posture and capabilities of the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali (MINUSMA) will enable the mission to effectively support the Malian government in achieving lasting peace and stability in the country.

MINUSMA was established in 2013 to support Mali's reconciliation between the north and south and carry out security-related tasks. The Security Council has been working on recommendations on capacity building for the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali as well as increasing its troop levels after a series of attacks killing UN peacekeepers.

With many armed groups active in the country, the security situation in Mali remains grave. At least 20 people, including Malian soldiers, UN peacekeepers and civilians working for the United Nations, have lost their lives in terrorist attacks in northern and central Mali since May.

Terrorist groups like Ansar Dine, al-Qaida in Islamic Maghreb and Al Mourabitoune continue their insurgency against MINUSMA and Malian forces. These groups get support from the local population as well as some groups that have signed the peace agreement, according to MINUSMA head Mahamat Saleh Annadif. Endi