Colleagues
1. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3+, namely Algeria, Guyana, Somalia and my own country Sierra Leone.
2. We thank the penholder, France, for their constructive approach during the smooth negotiation process.
3. The A3+ welcomes the unanimous adoption of resolution ………, which renews and extends the mandate of MINUSCA pursuant to resolution 2745.
4. We are particularly pleased that this Council continues to demonstrate such unity on the activities of MINUSCA, which is reflective of significant progress on the ground over the past year.
Colleagues
5. The Central African Republic is at a critical crossroad moment.Despite significant progress made to restore State authority in all parts of the country with immense support from MINUSCA including MINUSCA’s assistance, to overcome the threats posed by armed groups, the security situation along its common borders remains fragile.
6. The A3+ wishes to remind this council that as the electoral cycle has entered an active and decisive phase in the midst of difficult resource constraints with four tiers of elections – i.e. the presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections scheduled for 28 December this year, the outcome will be a turning point to extend and consolidate State authority as well as anchor institutional stability. We wish to recall that local elections are being held after more than three decades and will represent a significant milestone in CAR’s democracy.
7. The A3+ welcomes the Government’s continued efforts and the progress made in the DDR process and calls on the Government to spare no effort in ensuring that this process remains transparent and nationally led.
8. In this context the A3+ reaffirms that MINUSCA remainsindispensable to CAR’s stabilization and discussion of a transition or reconfiguration must be guided by progress and practical realities on the ground and in close consultation with the national authorities.
9. In conclusion, we are also mindful of the liquidity challengesfacing the United Nations, however we still underscore the need for predictable and sustainable financing for MINUSCA to effectively deliver its mandate.
Colleagues
10. The A3+ remains steadfast in its commitment to peace, stability, and the full restoration of State authority in the Central African Republic.
11. The A3+ looks forward to continued progress and stands ready to support the Central African Government and people on their path to sustaining peace.
I thank you.