The members of the Security Council held a video conference on the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), with the participation of the Special Representative of the Secretary General, Mr. Mahamat Saleh Annadif and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mali, Mr Tiébilé Dramé. Ambassador Zhang Jun, Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations, attended the meeting and delivered remarks.

In his remarks, Ambassador Zhang expressed appreciation for the positive progress in the situation in Mali and called for further efforts of relevant parties in Mali to step up dialogue and cooperation and continue the implementation of the Peace Agreement. He stressed the need for a holistic and integrated approach for the long-term stability in Mali, and called for international support to Malian government to achieve sustainable development and improve its people’s livelihood. He also called for close attention to the security situation in northern and central Mali, and more help for Malian government to enhance capacity building to combat terrorism. He encouraged more support for enhancing MINUSMA’s capacity to better fulfill its mandate. Ambassador Zhang also emphasized that China is actively providing medical supplies and technical support to Mali to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, and will join hands with other members to continue helping African countries, including Mali, to the best of its ability.

Security Council members welcomed the progress made so far in the implementation of the Peace Agreement, and encouraged continued efforts to accelerate the implementation. They also expressed their solidarity with Mali in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, and called on the Government of Mali and the UN to continue working together to prevent the spread of the virus, and for MINUSMA to continue delivering on its mandate while ensuring the safety and security of its staff and peacekeepers.