Secretary-General Condemns Deadly Attack on Peacekeepers, Civilians in Mali, Urging All Parties to Continue Implementing Peace Agreement

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest terms the deadly complex attack that occurred today north of Douentza, in the Mopti region, claiming the life of two Malian civilians and killing one peacekeeper from Togo while injuring seven others.

The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the Governments and people of Mali and Togo.  He wishes a speedy and full recovery to the wounded peacekeepers.

The Secretary-General reiterates that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law and calls for the perpetrators of this attack to be brought to justice.  He reaffirms that attacks against Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) will not weaken the determination of the Mission to fully implement its mandate in support of the efforts of the Malian Government, the parties to the peace agreement and the people of Mali to achieve lasting peace and stability.

The Secretary-General underscores that the primary responsibility for peace and security lies with the Malian parties.  He urges them to continue to work to fully implement the provisions of the peace agreement and to do all they can to prevent such attacks against Malian civilians, signatory parties and international forces.