The UN expressed grave concern on Saturday about the escalation of tensions and the growing armed presence in northern Mali, which “prevents an orderly and timely exit” of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in that country (MINUSMA).
In a statement, the UN spokesperson emphasized that this is also the case would jeopardize the safe transfer of United Nations personnel and assets belonging to troop-contributing countries and the Organization, in addition to putting the Mission’s air operations at risk to protect and facilitate its withdrawal from Mali.
“At the UN reaffirmed his determination to complete the departure within the scheduled time in the country of MINUSMA, that is, on December 31, 2023, as set by the Security Council after Mali’s request to withdraw the mission without delay,” the spokesperson emphasized.
Fairness of the convoy in Gao
In this sense, the UN has reiterated its concern since since September 24, its logistical convoys have not left the town of Gao to collect equipment from the United Nations and troop contributing countries currently in Aguelhok, Tessalit and Kidal.
It can have a significant impact on the Mission’s ability to meet schedule built, he said.
Risk of forced departure
According to the world organization, the increase in tensions in northern Mali increases the possibility of a forced departure of the Mission without recovering the mentioned equipment, which could be the cause. significant financial loss cooperation countries and prevent the United Nations from supporting other peacekeeping operations that require such things.
The UN insists that “all parties have an obligation to refrain of any action or statement that may jeopardize the safe and timely withdrawal of MINUSMA.”
He also recalled that Security Council Resolution 2690 called on the transitional government of Mali to fully cooperate with the United Nations to guarantees an orderly and safe departure from the Mission, and requests that you fully respect all provisions of the Forces Agreement Statute until the departure of the last element of MINUSMA from Mali.
