Security Council Press Statement on Mali

 

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Samantha Power (United States):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attack by an explosive device on the road between Aguelhok and Tessalit, Mali, on 18 September, in which five Chadian peacekeepers of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) were killed and three other peacekeepers were severely injured.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest condolences to the families of the peacekeepers killed, as well as to the Government and people of Chad, and to MINUSMA.

The members of the Security Council commended the Chadian peacekeepers for their sacrifices and continued tireless efforts in MINUSMA.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support to MINUSMA and French forces that support it.  The members of the Security Council called on the Government of Mali to swiftly investigate this attack and bring the perpetrators to justice and stressed that those responsible for the attack shall be held accountable.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed the need to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their support for MINUSMA to assist the Malian authorities and the Malian people in their efforts to bring lasting peace and stability to their country, as mandated by the Security Council in resolution 2164 (2014).

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For information media • not an official record