Thank you, Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for briefing us today on the difficult developments in Central African Republic and the steps MINUSCA has taken in response. I would also like to thank other briefers for their valuable insights, in particular Ms. Ekomo-Soignet for sharing with us her perspective.
Estonia condemns in the strongest terms the targeting and killing of civilians, humanitarian workers, security personnel and also UN peacekeepers by armed groups, in particular the CPC. The perpetrators and instigators of this violence must be investigated and brought to justice.
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.
The rapid and robust response by MINUSCA to ensure the protection of civilians and delivery of humanitarian assistance has been commendable. We look favorably at the request to increase the personnel for the mission to improve its ability to fulfil its mandate in the current volatile circumstances. However, the primary responsibility for protecting all populations in the country and for advancing national reconciliation and the political dialogue still rests with CAR authorities.
Madam President,
Despite the risk of violence, the people of Central African Republic went out to vote and will do so again soon. Their courage clearly demonstrates the desire for a country where authority is given by people not taken by force. Their decisions must be accepted and respected by all political actors and any disputes regarding the electoral results must be settled peacefully and lawfully.
Estonia joins the calls for an immediate ceasefire and the revitalization of political dialogue and the reconciliation process. There is no road to lasting peace through violence. Moreover, with half of all registered voters being women, it should be evident that the country can only benefit from the full and meaningful participation of women in political and peace processes. Effective implementation of the Political Peace and Reconciliation Agreement will also benefit from the active support of its Guarantors and Facilitators and here I would like to welcome the strongly worded communique issued last week by the African Union. Finally, I would reiterate that accountability must be established for the spoilers of the agreement and the democratic process of elections.
Thank you Madam President