Thank you for convening today’s meeting to discuss the difficult situation in Central African Republic. I would like to welcome the presence of the honorable minister of Central African Republic and wish you and the people of Central African Republic strength in these troubled times. I would also like to thank Special Representative Ndiaye for the invaluable updates and insights.
Estonia strongly condemns the violence and attacks perpetrated by armed groups over the past weeks, which has claimed the lives of civilians, humanitarian workers, security personnel and also UN peacekeepers; attacks which may constitute war crimes. The perpetrators and instigators of this must be brought to justice. We strongly support the rapid and robust response by MINUSCA, in order to ensure the protection of civilians and delivery of humanitarian assistance and will continue to do so in the future.
I would like to extend my personal condolences to the peacekeepers of MINUSCA who have paid the ultimate price while protecting the lives of the people of Central Africa.
Mr. President,
Despite several parties’ actions to destabilize the electoral process through violence, the people of Central African Republic went out to vote and will do so again. Their decision must be accepted and respected by all political actors. Any disputes regarding the electoral results must be settled peacefully and lawfully.
There is no road to lasting peace through violence. We call on the Guarantors as well as the Facilitators to strengthen their engagement in supporting an effective implementation of the Political Peace and Reconciliation Agreement. Spoilers of the agreement and the democratic process of elections must be held accountable. We would also like to emphasize the importance of regional and cross-border initiatives that assist in ensuring stability in the country and promoting solutions through political dialogue.
Thank you Mr. President