Condemning Attacks against United Nations Peacekeepers in Mali, Secretary-General Reiterates Solidarity with Country’s Government, People

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General condemns today’s attacks perpetrated against the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in Timbuktu and Mopti regions.  Preliminary reports indicate that the attack against the camp in Ber resulted in 2 peacekeepers from Burkina Faso killed and 11 others injured, and that 4 peacekeepers from Togo were injured in the attack in Konna.

The Secretary-General extends his heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims and to the Government of Burkina Faso.  He also expresses solidarity to the Government of Togo.  He wishes a speedy recovery to the injured peacekeepers.

The Secretary-General recalls that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law and that the perpetrators must be brought to justice.

The Secretary-General reiterates the United Nations solidarity with the Government and people of Mali and its determination to support their efforts towards the stabilization of the country.