Secretary-General Concerned about Worsening Security in Northern Mali,

 

Reported Destruction of Ancient Timbuktu Mausoleums

 

The following statement was issued on 1 July by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is concerned by the worsening security and humanitarian situation in northern Mali, and by reports that the mausoleums of Sidi Mahmoud, Sidi Moctar and Alpha Moya in the ancient city of Timbuktu have been destroyed.

Such attacks against cultural heritage sites are totally unjustified.  The Secretary-General calls on all parties to exercise their responsibility to preserve the cultural heritage of Mali.

The Secretary-General reiterates his support for the ongoing efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union and countries in the region to help the Government and people of Mali resolve the current crisis through dialogue.

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For information media • not an official record