S/PV.10025 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of the Central African Republic to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Ms. Rugwabiza. Ms. Rugwabiza: I would like to congratulate the Russian Federation on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of October. I thank you, Mr. President, for personally presiding over this meeting, which is of particular importance as we approach the vote on the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). At the outset, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the troop- and police-contributing countries for all the peacekeepers who passed away in the line of duty during the reporting period, including the five peacekeepers from our Formed Police Unit from the Republic of the Congo who lost their lives in a tragic accident near Damara, 115 kilometres north of Bangui. We honour the memory and service of our fallen peacekeepers and extend our heartfelt compassion to their families and Governments. I am honoured to once again present the latest report of the Secretary-General on the situation in the Central African Republic (S/2025/638) and to inform the Council of MINUSCA’s main achievements in implementing its multifaceted mandate, in a context of complex challenges and of opportunities to consolidate the gains made thus far. I will address recent developments in the peace process and preparations for the 28 December elections, followed by an update on the security situation, including the spillover of the conflict in the neighbouring Sudan. The peace process has regained momentum and witnessed significant progress since the 19 April ceasefire agreement, which was facilitated by Chad and signed between the Central African Government and the two most active armed groups in the country, namely Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique (UPC) and Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation (3R). On 10 July, President Touadera chaired a ceremony in Bangui, with the participation of the leaders of 3R and UPC and the guarantors and facilitators of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, to mark the return of 3R and UPC to the peace process. On 7 October, President Touadera chaired another ceremony, during which the Ngaïssona wing of the anti-balaka and the Révolution et justice-Sayo Branch officially dissolved. With these dissolutions, 11 of the 14 armed groups that are signatories to the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation have now been officially dissolved. The implementation of the 19 April agreement and subsequent disarmament and demobilization operations have translated into tangible security gains in The presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections scheduled for 28 December will be a turning point for extending and consolidating State authority and for anchoring institutional stability. MINUSCA has continued providing multifaceted electoral assistance as mandated, as the electoral cycle has entered an active and decisive phase. On 23 August, the National Electoral Authority announced that the voters’ list was finalized. More than 2.3 million Central Africans registered, 47 per cent of whom are women. On 29 September, President Touadera convened the electorate to the vote. From 2 to 11 October, registration of candidates, including for the presidential elections, for all four elections took place. The momentum in the preparations for the upcoming combined elections has been driven by the Central African Government’s sustained political commitment. On 30 September, the Government pledged an additional $7.8 million to the United Nations Development Programme basket fund, enabling electoral preparations to continue. Yet, a funding gap of approximately $12 million persists. I appeal to partners for urgent resources so that the elections can be held in a timely manner. I appeal to the Government of the Central African Republic, the National Electoral Authority, judiciary institutions and the Constitutional Council to fulfil their respective responsibilities to ensure that elections are peaceful, inclusive and transparent. While the security situation has improved in some parts of the country, the situation remains challenging in the south-east and north-east border areas, notably in the Haut-Mbomou and Vakaga prefectures. On 2 and 3 October, I visited Birao and Am Dafok, at the border with the Sudan, as the spillover from the conflict in the Sudan intensified, including increased cross-border incursions by Sudanese armed elements. These incursions and attacks on villages caused mass civilian displacement around MINUSCA’s temporary operating base in Am Dafok. During my visit to Am Dafok, I reiterated MINUSCA’s full commitment to protecting civilians and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Interventions by MINUSCA’s force, coupled with our engagement with local communities and leaders, contributed to the voluntary return of most of the displaced persons in Am Dafok to their communities. In the Haut-Mbomou prefecture in the south-east of the country, at the border with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the situation remains fragile, owing to persistent insecurity and intercommunal tensions caused by Azande Ani Kpi Gbe activities targeting national defence and security forces, civilians and even MINUSCA. Heightened security risks have had an impact on humanitarian actors, while causing displacement of the population to Zapai in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo. On 15 October, Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary- General for Humanitarian Affairs, visited Birao and Zemio and underscored the need for sustained humanitarian assistance in the Central African Republic in view of the regional impact of the war in the Sudan. In a positive development, on 27 September the command of the joint Central African Republic-Chad force was installed in Sarh in southern Chad, paving the way for the force’s operationalization to secure the common border between Chad and the Central African Republic. MINUSCA continues to make progress on supporting the extension of State authority throughout the country, supporting the deployment of governors, prefects and sub-prefects. MINUSCA continues to provide logistical support for the deployment and extension of the presence of defence and internal security forces across the Central African territory, including to most remote MINUSCA remains central to the consolidation of security and peace gains made in the Central African Republic, which were made possible with the critical, active and unified support of the Council. MINUSCA’s mandate, with its full authorized strength, remains essential to support the Central Africans in their quest for lasting peace. Its mandate also serves as a critical buffer against the broad regional instability that continues to affect the subregion. Earlier this month, MINUSCA started to implement liquidity contingency measures, owing to the funding shortfalls affecting all peacekeeping operations. We have been instructed to achieve a 15 per cent reduction of expenditures for the current fiscal year, 2025–2026, and we are doing so through an immediate reduction of uniformed and civilian personnel and by curtailing some activities and operations. This poses significant challenges for the effective delivery of the mandate given to us by the Council at a very critical and sensitive period for the Central African Republic. In the context, we are prioritizing support for the protection of civilians; the electoral process, which will conclude in mid-2026; and the peace process, including ongoing disarmament and demobilization efforts. The months ahead will be decisive. The current security and political context in the Central African Republic should inform decisions on the renewal of MINUSCA’s mandate. I echo the Secretary-General’s recommendation that the Council extend MINUSCA’s mandate for one year at its current authorized strength. I would like to conclude by expressing once more my profound gratitude to the civilian and uniformed personnel of MINUSCA and to the United Nations Country Team for their dedication to peace, security and stabilization in the Central African Republic in extremely challenging conditions. I deeply appreciate the Mission’s troop- and police-contributing countries, and I thank the regional, multilateral, non-governmental organizations and the donor countries for their invaluable and generous contribution to peace and stability in the Central African Republic.

I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I would first like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, for her briefing and to reiterate to her France’s full support. I would like to welcome the presence among us of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic. The Central African Republic is firmly committed to the path towards restoring peace and security. The progress made in the peace process bears witness to this. The return of the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique and Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation armed groups to this process, following the agreement signed on 19 April with Chad’s mediation, is an important step forward. The strengthening of governance in the security sector is also to be welcomed and must continue. France also welcomes the efforts undertaken by the Central African Government to mobilize the necessary funding for the implementation of its national development plan. France is fully playing its role in this by enabling the Central African Republic to free up budgetary leeway with the signing on 22 October of a €25 million budget support loan. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) remains indispensable in consolidating this progress and making it irreversible. Despite the progress made, and as the Special Representative rightly emphasized, the security situation remains fragile, particularly in border areas, along transhumance corridors and around mining sites. The three The stability of the country but also that of the subregion depend on the continued support of the Council to the Central African authorities. MINUSCA’s ability to adapt and continue to implement its mandate is all the more important as the country prepares to hold three simultaneous elections starting on 28 December, including local elections, for the first time since 1988. France has supported the electoral process through a financial contribution for the revision of the electoral rolls, which has now been completed. MINUSCA’s logistical and security support is essential to ensure the smooth running of these elections, which must be transparent, free and inclusive. We must refrain from any premature disengagement or any signal in that direction, which would risk destabilization and could jeopardize the progress made. This would have repercussions for the entire region, at a time when many neighbouring States are in crisis and the number of refugees and displaced persons is putting pressure on the humanitarian situation. In conclusion, France will work with all members of this Council and in close coordination with the Central African Republic with a view to renewing MINUSCA’s mandate. The aim is to be able to continue to support the Central African Government in these decisive steps to ensure a lasting return to peace and security. This is a prerequisite for the subsequent gradual and orderly transfer of peacekeeping responsibilities to the national authorities.

We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), Valentine Rugwabiza, for her detailed briefing. We also thank the civilian, police and military personnel of MINUSCA for the work that they carry out day after day in difficult circumstances. We welcome the representative of the Central African Republic, who honours us with his participation this morning. The situation on the ground, as shown by the briefing we just heard, remains worrisome. Although the Central African Government has expanded its control over parts of the territory, armed violence persists and continues to affect the most vulnerable communities. Attacks against peacekeeping personnel, including those perpetrated in border areas by armed groups linked to the conflict in the Sudan, demonstrate the regional impact of the crisis and the risk of a spillover effect that threatens the security of the entire region. Panama firmly condemns these attacks and pays tribute to the peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the service of peace. These events reaffirm that MINUSCA remains essential and that the Security Council must ensure that the Mission has the resources, capabilities and mobility necessary to fulfil its core mandate of protecting civilians, in accordance with resolution 2759 (2024). In view of the general elections scheduled for 28 December, Panama underscores the importance of an inclusive, transparent and peaceful political process that is clear, credible and respected by all. The success of these The humanitarian dimension remains alarming. More than 37 per cent of the population is dependent on international assistance and continues to face basic needs, such as access to water, food and health services. The impact of climate change adds to this complex situation, exacerbating the existing fragilities. Prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall and recurrent floods are devastating crops and livelihoods, causing displacement and heightening tensions between herding and farming communities. This link between climate, peace and security is evident. Environmental degradation and the loss of resources create conditions conducive to recruitment by armed groups and the resurgence of local conflicts. The international response must integrate climate adaptation and community resilience actions as an essential part of peacebuilding. We also stress the importance of accountability. All allegations of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law committed by armed groups, foreign bilateral forces or elements associated with international operations must be investigated independently and impartially. The protection of civilians and the defence of human dignity are pillars of MINUSCA’s mandate and of the legitimacy of the United Nations presence in the country. In this context, Panama reaffirms its support for the Government and the people of the Central African Republic in their efforts to build a future of peace and stability.

I thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for providing us with her important update, and I welcome the presence of the representative of the Central African Republic at this meeting. I noted, in particular, the Special Representative’s focus on the need to safeguard the overall peacekeeping investment in the country and to remain committed to the cause of a durable and lasting peace settlement as we approach the crucial electoral date of 28 December. The decision of the Central African Republic to hold simultaneously presidential, legislative and local elections — the first regional and municipal elections since 1988 — in exactly two months’ time is an ambitious endeavour. It is conditional upon the considerable improvement in the security situation, achieved in close cooperation with the meaningful contribution of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) over more than a decade. We support all efforts undertaken by the State authorities to successfully prepare for this democratic milestone, which has the potential to create a solid foundation for social cohesion and national reconciliation. We reiterate Greece’s encouragement to all political parties to contribute to the creation of an inclusive political environment by raising electoral awareness and promoting dialogue, civic respect for electoral institutions and media freedom. On the logistical side, we echo concerns about the financial challenges that still persist and commend those Member States that have pledged support to fill current funding gaps and secure the successful conduct of the electoral process across the country. At the same time, we continue to stand behind MINUSCA’s two other main pillars under its five-year political strategy, promoted in close coordination with national authorities: creating renewed momentum in the peace process and intensifying the national disarmament programme. The negative repercussions of the Sudanese conflict remain a worrisome security factor, especially in the northern Vakaga Prefecture, with repeated incursions by armed elements, violations of the arms embargo and an influx of refugees. We welcome and are closely monitoring the recent engagement of the Special Representative in the region, as referred to in her statement, and MINUSCA’s efforts to facilitate intercommunal dialogue with the participation of local leaders from both sides of the border. Moreover, despite a decrease in reported cases during the last trimester, grave violations against children continue to be verified, mainly in the north but also in other regions. Almost half of these cases concern the recruitment and use of children. We urge all parties listed in the Secretary-General’s report on children and armed conflict (S/2025/247) to engage with the United Nations in order to end and prevent these grave violations. Accountability remains key, and the perpetrators of grave violations against children must be brought to justice. In closing, I would like to highlight our profound wish that during our next periodic meeting in February, the Council will be in a position to applaud the realization of successful elections and of a robust renewal of MINUSCA’s mandate. Despite legitimate demands for improving the Mission’s efficiency, troop levels and deployment of personnel on the ground must allow for a robust presence that does not call into question the hard-won gains of previous years. Both these outcomes will pave the way to fulfil the objectives of the Mission’s mandate and deliver on the Council’s promises to the people of the Central African Republic, while honouring and justifying the numerous sacrifices of the United Nations personnel who have fallen in the line of duty for the cause throughout the years.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council plus one (A3+), namely Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia and my country, Guyana. We thank the Secretary-General for his latest report on the situation in the Central African Republic (S/2025/638), and we express our appreciation to Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), for her comprehensive briefing. We also pay tribute to MINUSCA’s personnel and all troop- and police-contributing countries for their sacrifice in the service of peace in the Central African Republic. We also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting. The A3+ welcomes the continued efforts of the Government of the Central African Republic to advance peace and stability, particularly through dialogue with armed groups and the implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. We reiterate our sincere gratitude to Chad for its successful mediation among the Government and two armed groups, namely Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique. The self-dissolution of these armed groups in July, in addition to two other armed The security situation remains fragile. The A3+ condemns the continuing attacks by the Azande Ani Kpi Gbe militia in the south-east and the incursions along the Sudanese border by the Rapid Support Forces. We are deeply concerned about the spillover effects of the conflict in the Sudan and the risks posed to regional stability. We call for enhanced coordination among MINUSCA, the Central African Republic authorities and neighbouring States to strengthen border control and prevent cross- border movements of armed groups and weapons. The A3+ underscores the importance of the upcoming elections scheduled for 28 December. These elections are a critical opportunity to consolidate peace, strengthen democratic institutions and renew national unity. We note that this will be the first local election in 37 years and underscore its importance in relation to the decentralization of authority. We acknowledge the support being provided by MINUSCA, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and development partners to the electoral process, including voter registration and logistical assistance. We emphasize that the role of MINUSCA at this particular point in time remains critical to the successful conduct of the elections. We are, however, concerned about the significant financial and operational gaps threatening the timely and inclusive conduct of these elections. The A3+ joins the call for urgent contributions to the UNDP-managed basket fund and stresses the need for sufficient air assets and logistical capacity for MINUSCA to fulfil its electoral mandate. We also emphasize that the outcome of the elections must be credible, transparent and inclusive, ensuring the full participation of women, youth and displaced persons and safeguarding civic space. In addition to mobilizing the necessary resources to convene these elections, creating the space for the participation of opposition parties and civil society is equally significant to ensure credible elections. We therefore encourage the Government and the opposition to urgently resume dialogue. This is crucial to ensure that the process is not marred by any unfortunate misgivings that would erode the progress made thus far in stabilizing the country. MINUSCA should play a central role in encouraging the relevant parties to return to the negotiating table. The A3+ remains gravely concerned about the human rights and humanitarian situation, in particular in areas affected by violence in the Central African Republic. We condemn all acts of violence against civilians, in particular women and children, and call for accountability for perpetrators. We also call for sustained humanitarian assistance to respond to the growing needs of displaced populations, particularly those affected by conflict and climate-induced shocks. We are also concerned by hate speech directed against the Fulani and Arab communities in the east of the country. We call on the relevant authorities to address this issue, which has negatively affected the human rights situation. The A3+ reiterates that the safety and security of United Nations personnel are paramount. Attacks against peacekeepers are unacceptable and may constitute a war crime. We are concerned about the recent increase in security incidents involving United Nations personnel. We call for full accountability and urge the host authorities to facilitate investigations and prosecutions. In conclusion, as the Council prepares to consider the renewal of MINUSCA’s mandate next month, the A3+ reaffirms that the Mission remains indispensable to the Central African Republic’s stabilization. Any discussion of a transition or reconfiguration must be guided by progress and practical reality on the ground and conducted in close consultation with the national authorities. While mindful of the liquidity challenges of the United Nations, we underscore the need for predictable and sustainable financing for MINUSCA to effectively deliver its mandate, especially given the progress made in the implementation of the peace agreement and towards the holding of elections. We warn that any significant reduction of the Mission’s mandate could have deleterious consequences for the Central African Republic and the wider region. The A3+ reaffirms its unwavering support for the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the Central African Republic. We stand in solidarity with the Government and the people in their quest for peace, stability and development, and we commend the African Union and the Economic Community of Central African States for their continued engagement in support of these objectives.

I would like to start by thanking Special Representative of the Secretary-General Rugwabiza for her briefing and for her good work, and let me also welcome the representative of the Central African Republic to this meeting. Allow me to make three points. First, Denmark strongly supports the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and recognizes its indispensable role across the Central African Republic. Since its deployment, the Mission has been the backbone of support to the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, the protection of civilians, the facilitation of humanitarian operations and the preparation of elections. It has enabled meaningful progress on disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation, with 11 of the 14 signatory armed groups now disbanded. In many respects, MINUSCA is a Security Council success story. But that progress has come at real cost — civilians, peacekeepers and humanitarian personnel have paid with their lives to reach this point. As the Special Representative reminded us, these hard-won gains are not irreversible. They must now be consolidated. This requires renewed Council support and a clear expression of solidarity with the people of the Central African Republic and the wider region. Secondly, in just over one month, the Central African Republic will hold four elections simultaneously: presidential, legislative, local and municipal. Reaching this juncture is a milestone but also a major stress test. We commend the authorities of the Central African Republic and MINUSCA for nationwide voter registration and for putting in place the security architecture needed for people to vote safely. Yet insecurity, particularly in Vakaga and along border regions, risks producing uneven access to the polls. Here again, MINUSCA’s presence is essential to ensure a safe environment and facilitate the process. We further underscore the need for these elections to be inclusive, with the full and meaningful participation of women, youth and all political actors. Thirdly, despite major efforts, humanitarian conditions in many areas remain catastrophic. The humanitarian response plan for the Central African Republic is among the most underfunded worldwide. Coverage has dropped sharply, leaving communities exposed to acute needs and protection risks. Severe gaps persist in the north-east, the south-east and along transhumance corridors. Child recruitment by armed groups continues, and maternal mortality remains among the highest globally. In closing, the Central African Republic stands at a pivotal moment. Denmark echoes the Secretary-General’s call to safeguard the gains achieved and to prevent reversal. As negotiations on the mandate renewal begin, we look forward to working with all Council members to anchor the path ahead in peace, accountability and inclusion and to preserve the significant progress already made.

I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for her informative briefing today on the situation in the Central African Republic. We are encouraged by recent progress in the Central African Republic, thanks in part to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). The disarmament and demobilization of armed groups, including the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique and Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation, has led to decreased armed group activity and improved security in the region of the country. Progress in elections, including the publication of the final voter list, marks an important step in the electoral process and the decentralization of State authority. We are also encouraged by steps that the Central African Republic Government has made in financing the national development plan, including at the Casablanca donors conference, although challenges remain. We encourage the Central African Republic Government to continue pursuing reforms and diversified partnerships to ensure that economic opportunities can contribute to peace and prosperity in the country. Despite progress, we remain concerned about persistent insecurity in parts of the Central African Republic, including spillover from the conflict in the Sudan, persistent conflict over resource-producing areas and pockets of continuing ethnic and armed group violence and extortion. Against this backdrop of progress amid lingering challenges, we urge the Central African Republic Government to continue working with MINUSCA to consolidate security gains on the path to peace, prosperity and self-reliance. Consolidating security gains over the long term will require Government commitment to security sector reform and a professional and accountable national force that can safeguard the Central African Republic’s borders and protect its civilians. As a Council, we should appreciate and support these peace and security gains, while ensuring that expensive peacekeeping missions do not become permanently entrenched in the country. With continued and future progress, including the upcoming elections, we must always consider how MINUSCA can work with the Central African Republic Government to appropriately transition responsibilities to the Government to ensure that it is ultimately prepared to take on MINUSCA’s full responsibilities in the long term. In closing, we urge the Government and the political opposition to engage in open and constructive dialogue to reduce political tensions in preparation for the historic local elections. We look to the Central African Republic’s independent electoral and constitutional institutions to faithfully uphold the law and fulfil their democratic duty to their compatriots.

I wish to thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for her comprehensive briefing, and I also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting. Let me begin by expressing our sincere condolences to the families of the five Congolese peacekeepers who lost their lives in the tragic road accident on 16 September and to the Government of the Republic of the Congo. This incident underscores the considerable risks that the personnel of the United Nations Multidimensional Since joining the Security Council, Slovenia has been able to observe the value of investing in peacekeeping and peacebuilding in the Central African Republic, as the country slowly rose from conflict. The Council must continue to support these efforts. As we approach the renewal of MINUSCA’s mandate, I wish to make four brief points. First, MINUSCA remains an indispensable guarantor of peace, security and stability. For this reason, Slovenia supports a new one-year extension of the Mission’s mandate. We recognize the Mission’s financial challenges. However, the renewal of the mandate should be guided primarily by the Mission’s political strategy and operational needs, while reflecting national priorities. Secondly, we welcome the progress made in preparing for the local, legislative and presidential elections in December but remain concerned about continuous funding shortfalls. All stakeholders must ensure that adequate resources are secured so that the elections can proceed in a timely and organized manner. Elections alone will not yield meaningful results without a free and open civic space. We encourage the authorities to guarantee freedom of expression, assembly and association to ensure that the elections are inclusive, free and fair. Slovenia also calls for the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women. We commend the success of efforts to increase the proportion of women on the electoral register. Nevertheless, it is equally important to increase the share of women candidates to meet the 35 per cent quota, for example by strictly adhering to alternating candidate lists. We welcome the ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. The Council must support the national authorities in their efforts to ensure the rights of all women in the Central African Republic. This includes maintaining the key provisions of MINUSCA’s mandate on women and peace and security and the integration of gender-related considerations in the priority tasks of the Mission. Thirdly, we note the positive steps in strengthening the rule of law throughout the country. MINUSCA’s support for deploying magistrates and other officials remains essential to extending State authority and presence and must continue. The Special Criminal Court plays a key role in ensuring accountability for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. As a cost-effective and innovative model of justice, it deserves continued international support. We are nevertheless concerned about the Court’s precarious financial situation and encourage further resource mobilization to ensure its uninterrupted operation. Suspending the Court’s work would seriously undermine security in the country and risk reversing years of progress in upholding accountability for the most serious crimes. Finally, we emphasize that peace, security and stability are essential to addressing humanitarian needs and sustaining development. The recent escalation of violence in the Vakaga Prefecture has again demonstrated the grave impact of conflict on civilian populations, causing displacement, destruction of property and heightened protection risks, especially for women and children. It is imperative to ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to all populations in need. Slovenia will remain a steadfast supporter and friend of the Central African Republic. Its story is a powerful reminder of what peacekeeping can achieve when provided with opportunity, resources and political support. I join others in expressing condolences to the families of the five peacekeepers from the Republic of the Congo who lost their lives in service last month. The United Kingdom commends their dedicated service and the service of all personnel of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), under Special Representative Rugwabiza’s leadership, in support of the Government and the people of the Central African Republic. I will make three points. First, the upcoming elections in the Central African Republic represent a significant milestone. The United Kingdom welcomes the publication of the final voter list by the National Electoral Authority, which shows an increase in registered voters and improved gender representation. We encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to continue working with MINUSCA to ensure inclusive, free, fair and safe elections. Secondly, the United Kingdom welcomes the progress made by the Government of the Central African Republic, with MINUSCA’s support, on the national disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and rehabilitation programme. This programme can play an important role in supporting lasting peace and stability for the people of the Central African Republic. We note that the programme has already contributed to the identification of 202 children for reintegration, and we encourage further such efforts. Thirdly, we welcome the progress made so far in improving the security situation in the Central African Republic, but we note that more is needed. We particularly note the continuing impacts of the conflict in the Sudan on the Central African Republic and its neighbours. We encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to enhance border management with the Sudan to support refugees and prevent their exploitation by armed elements. We also encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to tackle human rights violations and abuses by armed groups, including Wagner Ti Azande, and to ensure that perpetrators are held to account. We encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to further consider its security partnerships to ensure that the people of the Central African Republic can enjoy the sustainable and lasting peace they deserve. The upcoming elections represent a critical point for the Central African Republic. We look forward to working intensively with all Council members in the coming weeks to secure a renewed mandate for MINUSCA that best supports the realization of our shared ambitions for long-term peace, stability and security for the people of the Central African Republic.

I thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for her briefing and welcome the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic to today’s meeting. In recent years, under the leadership of President Touadera and with the support of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), the Central African Republic has achieved sustained progress in its political process and made continuous improvements in its economic situation. However, challenges remain in the security sector and other areas. The international community should continue to provide constructive support to help the Central African Republic to consolidate its current positive momentum. I would like to make three points. China welcomes the official announcement in July by the Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique about ceasing hostilities. We call on armed groups that have not yet disarmed to return to political dialogue at an early date and to create a secure and stable environment for the Central African Republic’s electoral process. China recognizes the assistance by relevant parties to the electoral work in the Central African Republic. At the same time, we note that the electoral work in the country still faces a rather big funding gap, and we call on the international community to increase its support to ensure the smooth conduct of elections at all levels. Secondly, efforts should be made to help the Central African Republic to address its security challenges. The country continues to face security threats from both within and beyond its borders. Persistent instability in border areas, recurring armed attacks and conflicts related to transhumance have resulted in civilian casualties and displacement, while also posing threats to the safety of peacekeepers. China welcomes the establishment of the National Mine Action Authority by the Government of the Central African Republic in September, as well as the formulation of its mandate and structure in accordance with international mine action standards. The international community should help the Central African Republic to strengthen its security capacity, support its efforts to enhance border management, combat cross-border organized crime and the trafficking of small arms and light weapons, and improve the ability of its defence and security forces to maintain border stability, counter external threats and ensure the safety of peacekeepers. Such efforts are essential to creating a favourable security environment for the country’s political process and economic development. Thirdly, efforts should be made to help the Central African Republic to strengthen its capacity for sustainable development. The country’s economy is steadily recovering and maintaining moderate growth, yet it still faces multiple challenges, including rising inflation, fuel shortages and widening fiscal deficits. Rich in natural resources and endowed with enormous development potential, the Central African Republic deserves stronger economic assistance and investment from the international community. China hopes that, in line with the priorities set out in the country’s National Development Plan, the international community will provide targeted support in such areas as social services and agricultural and infrastructure development, to help the Central African Republic to turn its resource advantages into drivers of development and embark on a development path suited to its national circumstances. Under the leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, MINUSCA has provided significant assistance in promoting political stability and economic development in the Central African Republic. China commends this effort and will continue to support the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary- General at MINUSCA. Next month we will take action on MINUSCA’s mandate. China hopes that the Security Council will seize the opportunity to optimize and extend MINUSCA’s mandate, focus limited resources on the most urgent tasks in the Central African Republic and continuously enhance the effectiveness of MINUSCA’s mandate delivery. China would like to express its deepest respect for the contribution and sacrifices of the troop- and police-contributing countries.

Pakistan thanks the Secretary-General for his most recent report on the Central African Republic (S/2025/638) and Special Representative of the Secretary-General Valentine Rugwabiza for her comprehensive briefing. I welcome the participation of the representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting. We commend all personnel of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) for their dedicated service in difficult conditions. We extend our deepest condolences for the peacekeepers who have fallen in the line of duty. Pakistan is proud to have 1,400 troops serving in MINUSCA. Pakistan welcomes the decision by the Government of the Central African Republic to hold presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections in December. It is an important step towards consolidating democracy and representative governance in the country. The completion of the voter list, with nearly 2.4 million registered voters, including 47 per cent women, is a significant achievement. Yet the serious financing gap could jeopardize the conduct of elections. Pakistan joins the calls for urgent, predictable financial support to close the funding shortfall for conducting elections. We welcome the encouraging progress under the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, including the disarmament and dissolution of the Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique armed groups and the demobilization of more than 600 combatants. These are important gains that merit sustained international backing. At the same time, Pakistan notes the concern expressed by the Secretary-General regarding parallel or unregulated disarmament. The disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process must remain nationally led, centrally controlled, transparent and linked to socioeconomic integration to prevent relapses into violence. Pakistan notes the improved stability in many prefectures, but remains concerned about continued volatility in the north-east, in particular in Vakaga, due to the spillover from the conflict in the Sudan. Cross-border incursions, illicit flows and humanitarian pressures underscore the need for enhanced regional coordination. We support the Government’s efforts, in cooperation with Chad and others, to strengthen border management and transhumance security. MINUSCA is a success story in United Nations peacekeeping. The Mission continues to be the anchor for stability, protection of civilians, extension of State authority and electoral cycle support in the Central African Republic. However, the Mission faces significant financial and operational constraints. Liquidity shortfalls in unpaid contributions endanger mobility, force protection and the timely delivery of mandated tasks. Pakistan reiterates that mandates must be matched by predictable, adequate resources and robust enablers such as aviation, logistics and engineering. We also support a technical rollover of the mandate of MINUSCA, as advocated by the Secretary-General and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General at existing force levels. In conclusion, Pakistan reiterates its unwavering support for the people and the Government of the Central African Republic in their pursuit of lasting peace, stability and development. We commend MINUSCA’s vital role in protecting civilians, assisting the political process and extending State authority under increasingly

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Rugwabiza for her informative briefing. I also welcome the representative of the Central African Republic to this meeting. The Central African Republic is at a critical crossroads. In this regard, I would like to highlight three points today. First, we hope that free, fair and peaceful local legislative and presidential elections will be held on 28 December, thereby consolidating the hard-won security gains, strengthening governance and enhancing political cohesion. Despite persistent challenges, including funding shortages for the electoral process and continued tensions with armed groups, the efforts of the Government of the Central African Republic, supported by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other international partners, achieved an approximately 35 per cent increase in registered voters compared to the 2020– 2021 election. Still, it is necessary to remain vigilant against the potential recurrence of election-related violence, as witnessed in the country’s past. The transparency, fairness and inclusiveness of the electoral process is crucial to ensure that political disputes arising from the election do not translate into violence or instability. Secondly, the security situation of the Central African Republic remains very fragile, notwithstanding some recent political progress. We welcome the signing of the N’Djamena agreement in April between the Government of Central African Republic and the armed groups Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique (UPC) and Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation (3R), facilitated by the Government of Chad. The decision of the UPC and 3R to join the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process in July marked a critical step in revitalizing the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, contributing to a reduction in human rights violations and alleviating civil suffering in the central and western regions. However, in the north-east and south-east regions, in particular in Vakaga, Haute-Kotto and Haut-Mbomou prefectures, we remain seriously concerned about the growing incidence of violence, especially along the border with the Sudan, involving Sudanese armed elements. Insecurity in these border areas has exacerbated the cross-border flows of armed combatants, weapons and conflict minerals, further destabilizing the region. Violence related to transhumance movements also persists. We urge the Government of the Central African Republic to redouble its efforts to strengthen security and governance in these border regions. Thirdly, we commend MINUSCA’s dedicated efforts to create the political, security and institutional conditions conducive to durable peace, as well as its continued commitment to addressing the threat posed by armed groups. Despite operating amid a liquidity crisis, MINUSCA continues to play a vital role in implementing its mandate by protecting civilians, extending State authority and supporting the peace process, among other tasks. We further acknowledge MINUSCA’s commendable work in supporting the electoral process and its contribution to upholding the rule of law in the Central African Republic by supporting the work of the Special Criminal Court, strengthening judicial and correctional institutions and advancing security sector reform. The Republic of Korea reaffirms its unwavering support for Special Representative Rugwabiza and MINUSCA, which remains a key pillar in the Central African Republic’s stabilization efforts. We will also constructively engage with Council members in the upcoming MINUSCA mandate renewal. We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Valentine Rugwabiza, for her briefing and welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting. We are pleased to note that, with the support of Russia, other bilateral partners and the United Nations, the situation in the Central African Republic continues to improve steadily. We welcome Bangui’s efforts to advance the political process further and to extend State authority throughout the national territory. The agreement reached in April in N’Djamena, with Chadian mediation, between the Government of the Central African Republic and the major armed groups — Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation (3R) and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique (UPC) — is being implemented progressively. A significant number of combatants have already undergone disarmament and demobilization process. Other groups, whose leaders now recognize the futility of armed struggle, are also engaging in dialogue with the Government. The consolidation of the peace process is having a positive impact on the security situation. This is evidenced, inter alia, by the latest United Nations statistics, which show a further decline in the number of crimes against civilians. An important indicator here is the increase in the number of Central Africans returning to the Central African Republic thanks to the improvement in the situation in their country. We note the additional measures taken by Bangui to strengthen border control and address cross-border challenges and threats. Substantive cooperation on this matter with Chad and other States in the subregion is developing quite rapidly. At the same time, the military and political crisis in neighboring Sudan continues to have a negative impact on the situation in the Central African Republic. It is precisely the area of the porous border with that country that is marked by increased activity by militants, primarily from the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF). We strongly condemn the illegal movement of RSF fighters into the Central African Republic sovereign territory and the crimes they are committing. As a result of one of their attacks, a peacekeeper from the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) was killed. We express our condolences to the family and Government of the deceased, as well as to those of other fallen peacekeepers and the leadership of the Mission. The Russian Federation unreservedly condemns attacks on the Blue Helmets. MINUSCA is making a significant contribution to stabilizing the situation in the Central African Republic. It remains one of the key elements in the consolidated efforts to combat armed groups and protect civilians. We support the leadership of MINUSCA and note that the Mission maintains mutual understanding and constructive dialogue with the authorities of the host country. We thank the military personnel of troop-contributing countries for their dedication to fulfilling their duties. We share the Secretary-General’s view that full support for the Mission’s assistance to the authorities of the Central African Republic is particularly important during the upcoming electoral period. This and other key mandated tasks of the Mission should not be held hostage to the positions of individual Security Council members or to the Secretariat’s responsive measures aimed at optimizing the financing of peacekeeping operations. It is clear that international support for Bangui must continue in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, aligned with the priorities of the Central African people themselves. We wish our friends in Bangui every success in organizing the important events of the forthcoming electoral cycle. The successful conduct of elections at various levels — including, for the first time in several decades, municipal I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of the Central African Republic.

I thank you, Mr. President, for giving me the floor. First of all, allow me, on behalf of the Government and people of the Central African Republic, to congratulate you on your presidency of the Security Council for the month of October. I also extend our most sincere appreciation to Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), for her detailed presentation of the Secretary- General’s report on the situation in our country (S/2025/638) and for her unwavering commitment and enlightened leadership. The Central African Republic also pays tribute to all the women and men, both civilian and military, who serve under the United Nations flag in often difficult conditions. We honour, with deep emotion, the memory of the Blue Helmets and humanitarian personnel who lost their lives while carrying out their mission for peace and human dignity on Central African soil. We finally express our gratitude to all members of the Security Council for their constant support, as well as to our bilateral and multilateral partners for their fraternal solidarity. Thanks to this collective support, our country continues to make decisive progress towards stability, national reconciliation and sustainable development. As the Central African Republic continues its courageous journey towards peace and reconstruction, our country has achieved significant progress that deserves recognition and consolidation. These gains, often fragile but deeply rooted in the will of the people, reflect the determination of President Faustin Archange Touadera and his Government to turn the dividends of peace into tangible realities for our citizens. Politically, the official return of the armed groups Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation (3R) and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique (UPC) to the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, signed in Khartoum in 2019, marks a decisive turning point in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process. This renewed commitment, supported by our regional partners, in particular Chad, injects fresh momentum into national dialogue and strengthens the credibility of the reconciliation process initiated by the Head of State. Peace, however, must be rooted in development if it is to endure. That is why the round table on the national development plan for 2024–2028, held on 14 and 15 September in Casablanca, Morocco, represents a historic milestone. Under the high patronage of the President of the Republic, and with the support of the Kingdom of Morocco, the meeting mobilized pledges amounting to $9.6 billion — a clear sign of the international community’s renewed confidence in the Central African vision of inclusive and sustainable development. This moment is full of hope. It shows that the Central African Republic, long viewed as prey to conflict and fragility, is now becoming a place for solutions and resilience. Bilateral partners, international financial institutions and the private sector have all stepped forward to support the implementation of a reconstruction agenda based on security, governance and shared growth. As Paul Collier has said, nations emerging from conflict need not only humanitarian aid but also transformative economic opportunities to break the cycle The investments announced in Casablanca in the infrastructure, energy, agriculture, education and health sectors, represent a concrete translation of peace, a shift from the silence of arms to the action of development. These advances, although considerable, call for continued support. They require sustained technical and financial assistance so that promises turn into projects, and projects become, for the Central African people, prospects for the future. For peace is never achieved by the mere absence of war, but by the creation of an economic environment in which citizens have more to gain from stability than from rebellion. The Central African Republic is advancing on this path with lucidity and determination. It does so with the constant support of MINUSCA, its regional partners and the entire international community. Our collective responsibility today is to sustain this momentum, so that the fruits of dialogue and development permanently consolidate peace and pave the way for sustainable prosperity. The economic and political progress I have just described would be meaningless if not accompanied by a deepening of democracy. For development, to be sustainable, must be rooted in the legitimacy of institutions and the trust of citizens in the State. It is to that end that the Central African Republic is preparing to organize, on 28 December, presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections of historic significance. These elections constitute the foundation upon which political stability and national reconciliation will rest in the years to come. After decades of instability, division and mistrust, the Central African people are preparing to freely decide the future of their country in a climate of restored security and responsibility. The Government, under the leadership of the President of the Republic, has taken all necessary measures to guarantee the transparency, credibility and inclusivity of the process. Thanks to the technical support of MINUSCA and the United Nations Development Programme, the final voter list now includes nearly 2.4 million voters, nearly half of whom are women. This progress testifies not only to a broadening of citizen participation but also to a deep commitment to the representation of youth and women in national political life. We are aware that these elections will take place in a complex context, marked by budgetary constraints, high social expectations and regional tensions linked to neighbouring crises. But we remain convinced that the success of this electoral process is the cornerstone of our lasting exit from the crisis. This is why the Central African State is already devoting a significant portion of its resources to it, despite a narrow fiscal space, and we once again call on our partners to bridge the funding gap, estimated at $12.4 million, to enable the holding of truly free and peaceful polls. As the Central African Republic prepares to cross a new decisive milestone in its political history with the holding of the general elections in December, the role of MINUSCA remains more essential than ever. We are aware that our Organization is going through a period of profound budgetary constraints, marked in particular by a significant reduction in budgets dedicated to peacekeeping and peacebuilding. But allow me to say this with the gravity the moment demands: this reduction in the means for peace must not translate into a retreat of peace itself. It is in this spirit of vigilance and responsibility that His Excellency Professor Faustin Archange Touadera, President of the Republic, recently addressed a letter to the President of the Security Council to draw the attention of the international community to the major risks such a reduction would pose to the country’s stability and the continuity of peace. In this correspondence, the Head of State lucidly The Central African Republic is today one of the rare examples in which a peacekeeping mission has managed, despite one of the most complex environments in the world, to restore hope, re-establish State presence and protect millions of civilians. Under the remarkable leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, MINUSCA has demonstrated that an integrated approach, combining security, governance, human rights and development support, can transform a United Nations mission into a genuine partner for national reconstruction. Thanks to its support, more than 700 ex-combatants have been disarmed and reintegrated since July 2025, courts have reopened in the prefectures, defence and security forces have been redeployed to areas once inaccessible, and above all, the electoral process we are preparing to hold has been set up under security conditions that have not been seen in over a decade. Reducing MINUSCA’s capabilities or its mandate today would amount to weakening the very foundations of the stability we have patiently built. Such a decision would have a direct impact on the protection of civilians, the credibility of the electoral process and the confidence the Central African people place in the United Nations. This is why we solemnly call on the Security Council to unequivocally renew the mandate of MINUSCA, in accordance with the recommendation of the Secretary-General, until 15 November 2026, with adequate and predictable means, and commensurate with its mission and the expectations of the Central African people. History will judge our collective ability to protect the advances of peace when the winds of disengagement blow. For the Central African Republic, MINUSCA is a symbol of the promise made by the United Nations to a wounded people — that the international community will not turn its back on those who have chosen peace over war. Renewing its mandate is to honour that promise. It is to give Central Africans the means to peacefully navigate this crucial electoral year. It is, finally, to reaffirm the Council’s faith in the universal value of solidarity and multilateralism, those pillars without which there can be neither stability, nor dignity, nor shared future. MINUSCA is not just a military presence: it is a living link between the hope of a people and the promise of the United Nations. To renew it is to protect not just a country, but an idea: that international solidarity remains possible, even in a turbulent world. Peace in the Central African Republic cannot be perceived as an isolated good, detached from the regional context in which it is situated. On the contrary, it is intimately linked to the stability of the entire Sahel-Central African basin, where fragile situations feed each other and spread from one area to another. In recent months, our country has seen a tangible improvement in the security situation in the centre and west, notably following the return of the 3R and UPC groups to the peace process and the launch of the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programme supported by MINUSCA. However, the persistence of cross-border incursions from the Sudan, in particular in Vakaga prefecture, as well as residual armed movements in Haut-Mbomou, continue to pose a real threat to national stability. These challenges recall the transnational nature of contemporary insecurities, whereby porous borders make a country’s peace dependent on that of its neighbours. This is why the Central African Republic advocates for a concerted regional approach, based on cooperation between the States of the Chad, Sudan and Congo basins, within the framework of responsible neighbourhood diplomacy. Under the impetus of President Touadera, the Central African Republic has chosen the path of dialogue and cooperation, working closely with its neighbours to consolidate joint The Central African Republic stands today at a crossroads in its history: a moment in which the promises of dialogue, development and democracy converge but remain fragile. We call on the international community to remain by our side — not out of charity, but out of shared destiny. Indeed, in many ways, the fate of the Central African Republic reflects the very battle multilateralism is fighting: the struggle to prove that cooperation remains stronger than the fragmentation of our world. At a time when crises are multiplying and some doubt the relevance of the United Nations, our country wishes to recall that the United Nations is still capable of bringing peace, dignity and hope. Allow me to conclude with a simple conviction: if peace in the Central African Republic were to falter, part of the credibility of the international system would waver with it. However, if together we consolidate it, we will prove that even in a fragmented world, it is still possible to build a community of shared destiny founded on faith in humanity. It is this faith that the Central African Republic brings before the Council today, and it is with this same faith that our country will continue, with humility and determination, on its path towards lasting peace, justice and shared development.