S/PV.9365 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Mali to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. Members of the Council have before them document S/2023/480, which contains the text of a draft resolution submitted by France. The Council is ready to proceed to the vote on the draft resolution before it. I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now.

The draft resolution received 15 votes in favour. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as resolution 2690 (2023). I shall now give the floor those members of the Council who wish to make statements after the voting.

The group of three African members of the Security Council (A3) is of the view that the resolution just adopted (resolution 2690 (2023)) marks a significant milestone in the international community’s engagement with the people of Mali as they strive towards the restoration of peace, security and stability in their country. We believe that, since the establishment of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), on 25 April 2013, the Mission has played an important role in facilitating the political processes in the country, carrying out security-related tasks and stabilizing Mali. We underline that MINUSMA has played a crucial role in securing Mali in the face of the immense security challenges that the country is facing. Today, however, in line with the wishes of the Malian transitional authorities, the Security Council has terminated the Mission and set out processes for the withdrawal of the United Nations troops from Mali. We take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation to all troop- and police-contributing countries for their roles in helping to maintain the integrity of Mali. We pay special tribute to all peacekeepers and other personnel who lost their lives for the cause of peace. The withdrawal of MINUSMA, however, should not be the end of the international community’s engagement with Mali. The people of Mali will continue to need the solidarity and support of the international community as they enhance their security capabilities to fill the gaps that will be created with the departure of the international presence, as well as in sustaining the implementation of the Algiers Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali and the transitional road map, especially the realization of the March 2024 electoral timetable. While Mali confronts immense security challenges, the solution is not wholly military, but rather a mixture of responses that also includes sustained efforts at national reconciliation, improvements in inclusive governance and State administration and better integration of Mali’s interests with its neighbouring region. We believe the penholder diligently worked to ensure that the resolution we adopted contain the elements necessary to work out practical arrangements for a safe and orderly withdrawal, in cooperation with Mali’s transitional authorities. We cannot risk creating vulnerabilities during the withdrawal period that would embolden terrorists and violent extremist groups to further destabilize Mali. Neither can we jeopardize the safety and security of the United Nations personnel or the protection of civilians, including humanitarian actors. We therefore urge a coordinated implementation of the withdrawal of the Mission within the six-month period and in a way that does not erode the gains made on the security front. The cooperation of the authorities of Mali is important to ensure a seamless transfer of tasks, effective 1 July, in accordance with paragraph 2 of the resolution, while being mindful of the obligations to respect the status of forces as called for by paragraph 4. Timely approvals of flights and customs clearances would be particularly important in that regard to ensure that set timelines are met. In concluding our explanation as to why the A3 supports the resolution, I must highlight that the withdrawal of MINUSMA from Mali changes the way that the region and the international community must implement the strategies for stabilizing the Sahel. Already, the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel, which benefits from MINUSMA’s presence in the region, will be affected by the withdrawal of the Mission’s support, as well as other assurances that have been built into regional security initiatives to deter, detect and disrupt terrorist and violent extremists’ activities in the Sahel. We will therefore need to engage constructively with other processes that are in the pipeline to stabilize the region. Finally, we urge good-faith commitment, close cooperation, mutual respect and open and frank discussions between the United Nations and Mali to ensure the effective management of the withdrawal phase of MINUSMA in a manner that will limit any unintended consequence for the stability of Mali and its immediate region.

I would like to first thank France, as the penholder, for its work on this resolution (resolution 2690 (2023)). While we deeply regret the transition Govern­ ment’s decision to abandon the United Nations Multi­ dimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the harm that that will bring to the Malian people, we voted in favour of the resolution, as we are ultimately satisfied with the drawdown plan that the Security Council has just adopted. We call on all signatory parties to continue their cooperation and avoid any actions that would jeopardize the ceasefire. We note that, despite the loss of MINUSMA’s assis­ tance, the transition Government must continue to ad­ here to its agreement with the Economic Community of West African States to transition to a democratically elected civilian-led Government by March 2024. The resolution that we adopted today clearly reinforces the transition Government’s obligation to cooperate fully with the drawdown, withdrawal and liquidation of MINUSMA and ensure that those processes are carried out safely and orderly, with the utmost care for the safety and security of peacekeepers. The transition Government also has an obligation to respect its commitments under the status-of-forces agreement, which remains in force until the final MINUSMA element leaves Malian soil. That means guaranteeing unimpeded access to United Nations facilities and the full freedom of movement of MINUSMA, its personnel and equipment throughout Mali and full cooperation in the redeployment and export processes, including by granting visas, as necessary, to all personnel required for drawdown and liquidation. Steps taken by the Malian transition authorities in recent days to block MINUSMA’s imports can impede the drawdown process and undermine the safety and security of peacekeepers and, as such, are unacceptable. We are concerned about statements from some domestic actors calling for the harassment of peacekeepers. Actions that threaten the security of peacekeepers are unacceptable, and we call on the transition Government to ensure the safety of all MINUSMA personnel. We welcome the resolution’s clear directive to MINUSMA to ensure that all assets be handed over in full compliance with United Nations practices and regulations. We urge the Mission to take all necessary steps and precautions to ensure the safe and orderly transfer of United Nations facilities and equipment to designated entities. The United Nations has a responsibility to minimize the risk that its assets fall into the hands of those looking to destabilize Mali or bring harm to its people, including violent extremist organizations and the Wagner Group. Finally, I would like to applaud the resolution’s reaffirmation of Mali’s primary responsibility to protect its civilians, consistent with its obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The international community will continue to monitor the human rights situation in Mali and speak out against violations and abuses. While the resolution marks the end of MINUSMA, the United States commitment to the Malian people remains strong and lasting. I would like to conclude by expressing the profound gratitude of the United States to MINUSMA for its service over the past decade, especially the troop- and police-contributing countries, whose peacekeepers have risked and sacrificed their lives for Mali’s peace and security.

At the outset, let me reiterate Japan’s profound appreciation for the efforts of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) over the years and applaud the bravery of its personnel, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Japan voted in favour of the resolution (resolution 2690 (2023)), albeit with reservations. It is regrettable that MINUSMA has to withdraw at this time despite the many challenges Mali and the region continue to face. We call on the transitional Government of Mali to cooperate fully with the United Nations to ensure the orderly and safe withdrawal of the Mission over the coming months, while respecting all the provisions of the status-of-forces agreement until the departure of the final elements of MINUSMA from Mali. We also stress the importance of ensuring a smooth and proper transfer of MINUSMA’s tasks. Japan emphasizes that all operations by security forces, including those conducted jointly with foreign security personnel, should be carried out in accordance with international obligations. That includes any operations designed to ensure the protection of civilians. Furthermore, Japan underscores the need for the Security Council to continue its engagement with Malian parties and regional actors to implement the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, as well as the importance of achieving a political transition and ensuring the return to constitutional order by March 2024, which are indispensable for sustainable peace in Mali and beyond. Japan reaffirms its commitment to contributing to peace and security in Mali and the Sahel region.

Brazil entered negotiations hoping for the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), as we still had a positive assessment of its contribution to the situation in Mali. Nevertheless, we acknowledge the concerns raised by the Malian transition authorities and the fact that the consent of the host Government is essential to any peace operation. As the Security Council comes together to formally terminate the MINUSMA mandate, we would like to pay tribute to both the peacekeepers and civilians who perished while risking their lives to fulfil their duties to help protect the lives of United Nations personnel and the people of Mali. My delegation also thanks Special Representative of the Secretary-General Wane for his efforts and energy dedicated to leading the Mission and reiterates its support for his work as the United Nations starts the drawdown. We hope that the engagement with the Malian authorities to prepare the transfer of MINUSMA tasks and its withdrawal will be constructive and enable Mali to continue its political transition process and the pursuit of durable peace. In that vein, we would like to reiterate our support for the leadership of Algeria in the mediation process to overcome the present impasse, and we urge all Malian political forces to remain engaged in dialogue and redouble efforts aimed at the full implementation of the peace agreement.

Switzerland thanks France for its efforts as penholder of the resolution (resolution 2690 (2023)) on the withdrawal of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) from Mali. Switzerland acknowledges and respects the decision of the Malian authorities to request the immediate withdrawal of MINUSMA. We regret that we have come to this point. For us, the decision appears to have been hastily made. The environment for an immediate withdrawal is unsuitable. The situation in Mali continues to threaten international peace and security. Switzerland would have liked to have seen a more gradual transition period, while taking into account the situation on the ground. In a spirit of compromise and consensus, we voted in favour of the resolution submitted to us. Nevertheless, we would like to make the following points to clarify our position. We are concerned about the future of the people of Mali. MINUSMA’s withdrawal will have a direct impact on the Malian people, which is of concern to a wide range of actors active in the field of civilian protection. It is first and foremost the responsibility of the Malian State to protect its population. We are therefore counting on the authorities to take appropriate measures to protect the civilian population — without discrimination — at every stage of the Mission’s withdrawal and beyond, and to engage in dialogue with the parties. We also call on all parties to respect their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law. The modalities and duration of the Mission’s withdrawal are of particular importance to Switzerland. We take note of the reasons that led to the goal of a withdrawal in such a short time frame. Nevertheless, we reiterate that, from a logistical point of view, six months is not sufficient for a responsible withdrawal of a peacekeeping operation of MINUSMA’s size. The withdrawal must take place in an orderly and secure manner. The lessons learned from other transitions, as well as the recommendations contained in resolution 2594 (2021), should serve as guidance. We therefore call on the Malian authorities to work closely with MINUSMA and to respect the status-of-forces agreement until all MINUSMA personnel have been able to leave Mali. That also means that permission to import the equipment needed for the Mission’s departure, such as fuel, must be granted as soon as possible. The security of personnel must be guaranteed at all times. The Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali remains a crucial instrument for peace, stability and development in the country. Switzerland therefore calls on all parties to resume dialogue and to respect their obligations under the agreement. Furthermore, it is important that the Secretary-General propose concrete measures to ensure the continuity of the tasks currently covered by MINUSMA as part of the agreement’s implementation. It is essential to preserve the gains of recent years and to resume the diligent implementation of the agreement, which is also in the interests of stability and security throughout the region. MINUSMA has made an important contribution to peace and security in Mali and the region. Switzerland offers its sincere condolences to the families and troop- contributing countries that have suffered casualties. We reiterate our full support for MINUSMA and all its staff, who have worked tirelessly since the Mission began, and express our gratitude for their commitment.

Malta thanks France, as the penholder, for its extensive efforts on this file. We also thank Special Representative Wane and his team at the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), and we pay tribute to those peacekeepers who have served the Mission since its inception 10 years ago. Today we also remember those who paid the ultimate price. Following today’s adoption (resolution 2690 (2023)), Malta strongly underlines the importance of a safe and orderly withdrawal in accordance with international obligations, such as international human rights law and international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians. The safety of peacekeepers in the coming months remains of the utmost importance. It is crucial for the drawdown, withdrawal and liquidation to be fulfilled in full cooperation between the Malian transitional Government and the United Nations. Cooperation should extend to respect for the freedom of movement in accordance with the status-of-forces agreement. Malta urges the Malian authorities to keep the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali as a priority of the transitional Government, and to give due consideration to the work and contributions offered by the United Nations country team and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel in the transfer of MINUSMA’s tasks. At the same time, we call for a renewed approach, based on concrete confidence-building measures that will help to re-establish open dialogue between the signatory parties in order to deliver tangible results. Malta reiterates the importance of the Malian transitional Government fulfilling its commitment to hold free and fair presidential elections in February next year, with the sole aim of returning to democratic rule by a civilian-led Government. We look forward to updates being shared with the Council in a timely manner. Dame Barbara Woodward (United Kingdom): I join others in thanking France for its work on this file. I also pay tribute to Special Representative Wane and the dedication and service of United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) personnel. We offer our condolences to those who paid the ultimate price. As we know, the transitional Government of Mali requested MINUSMA’s departure. The United Kingdom would not have chosen to withdraw MINUSMA at this moment, when Mali and the wider Sahel are facing increasing instability and humanitarian needs. We do not believe that partnership with the Wagner Group will deliver long-term stability or security for the Malian people. We are particularly concerned about the impact that MINUSMA’s withdrawal could have on the future of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali emanating from the Algiers process. We underline the obligations of all signatory parties to adhere to the agreement. As part of MINUSMA’s transition plan, we urge the United Nations to consider establishing an appropriate entity to support ongoing dialogue and implementation. Nevertheless, the United Kingdom welcomes the adoption of the resolution today (resolution 2690 (2023)), which emphasizes the need for MINUSMA to withdraw in a safe and orderly manner. We regret, however, that it was not possible to adopt a resolution allowing for a more prudent withdrawal timeline and a mandate that would have enabled MINUSMA to continue providing support during its drawdown. We are also concerned that the Mission’s mandate to protect civilians will be discontinued from October. The resolution sets an objective of withdrawal by 31 December, but it also requests that the Secretary- General keep the Council regularly informed on progress. We believe the Council should stand ready to revise that timeline, if needed, to allow time for a safe and orderly withdrawal. MINUSMA’s withdrawal will be a major logistical undertaking, and it will not be without risk. The resolution underlines Mali’s obligation to cooperate with the United Nations during MINUSMA’s exit process and to respect the status-of-forces agreement until its departure. MINUSMA’s freedom of movement must be upheld for the safety and security of its personnel. In that regard, we urge Mali to end restrictions on MINUSMA’s imports. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting the Malian people. We call upon the authorities to deliver on their commitment to the political transition with free and fair presidential elections in February 2024. We also urge them to fulfil their primary responsibility for the protection of civilians and their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

Albania voted in favour of the resolution requesting the drawdown and withdrawal of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) (resolution 2690 (2023)), as requested by the transitional Government of Mali. We thank the France as the penholder for its work. We regret the turn of events in recent weeks and praise MINUSMA peacekeepers and personnel, under the leadership of Special Representative Wane, for their unwavering dedication and commitment. We pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. The situation in Mali is fragile and precarious, with the country facing a multidimensional crisis. We encourage the authorities to work towards credible and inclusive elections, leading to the restoration of constitutional order by March 2024, and to focus on implementing the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali emanating from the Algiers process, which remains central to achieving lasting peace across Mali. It is imperative that Mali uphold its international obligations, including ensuring the protection of civilians and conducting military operations in line with human rights and international humanitarian law. The presence of the Wagner Group and its disregard for international law constitutes a serious threat to the Malian people. In conclusion, we urge the transitional Government of Mali to fully cooperate with MINUSMA and respect the status-of-forces agreement and to guarantee the Mission’s freedom of movement in facilitating a safe and orderly drawdown, withdrawal and liquidation, including the transfer of any assets. It is crucial that risks associated with the withdrawal be mitigated as best as possible.

Ecuador voted in favour of resolution 2690 (2023), but regrets the decision of the transitional Government of Mali to request the withdrawal of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). We hope that the transitional Government will cooperate to ensure that the withdrawal of the Mission’s personnel is carried out in an orderly and, above all, safe manner. We also recall the responsibility of the Malian State to protect its population, in compliance with international law, human rights and international humanitarian law. We trust that the transitional Government will respect the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, including the political process that will crystallize with the holding of transparent, free and inclusive elections in February 2024. Ecuador will always support the people of Mali and wishes for their lasting peace, economic recovery and social reconciliation. Finally, I thank France for facilitating the consideration, in the resolution, of all the necessary elements for MINUSMA’s withdrawal.

The Russian Federation voted in favour of resolution 2690 (2023), prepared by the French delegation, on the withdrawal of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). We think it is important that the Council responded unanimously to the request of Mali, which took a sovereign decision on further parameters of ensuring the security and protection of the civilian population in the country. We reiterate our support for Bamako in its aspiration to assume full responsibility for, and the leading role in, stabilizing the situation in Mali. We also thank the peacekeepers and civilian personnel of MINUSMA for their service and work in support of the Malian people. Russia honours the memory of peacekeepers who sacrificed their lives for the sake of peace and security in Mali. The withdrawal of MINUSMA should proceed in an orderly and well-organized manner, in close coordination with the host country. We believe that the resolution adopted today sets out the necessary framework to achieve that. Russia will continue to provide comprehensive bilateral support to Mali in order to normalize the situation in the country.

The Security Council just unanimously adopted resolution 2690 (2023), which terminates the mandate of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and makes specific arrangements for its drawdown and withdrawal. China voted in favour of the resolution and expects the Secretariat to develop a practical and feasible plan for steps, such as the withdrawal of MINUSMA personnel and the liquidation of its assets, in accordance with the Security Council’s request, so as to ensure the Mission’s safe, orderly and timely withdrawal. China appreciates the long-standing efforts made by the troop- and police-contributing countries to support the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. In order to ensure a safe and orderly withdrawal of the Mission and safeguard the security of peacekeepers and United Nations assets, MINUSMA and the Secretariat should continue to work closely with the Malian Government. United Nations peacekeeping operations are important means for the Security Council to fulfil its responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. Experience has proven that peacekeeping operations must follow the basic principles developed in practice over a long period, particularly the principle of the consent of the countries concerned. Missions should maintain communication with the Governments of the countries concerned and keep a relationship of mutual trust and cooperation, which is a prerequisite for smooth peacekeeping operations. We hope that the Security Council will always strive to strengthen cooperation between peacekeeping operations and the countries concerned as a top priority and work tirelessly to that end. At present, many African countries, including those in the Sahel region, are facing multiple threats, such as terrorism, humanitarian crises, challenges to poverty reduction and development, as well as climate change. Maintaining regional peace and stability is in the common interest of the international community, which China expects to pay attention to the practical difficulties and needs faced by Mali and other countries in the region and to continue to provide assistance and support on the basis of respect for the sovereignty and leadership of the countries concerned. Since 2013, when China began its involvement in the United Nations peacekeeping operations in Mali, Chinese peacekeepers have faithfully fulfilled the peacekeeping Mission, despite all difficulties and dangers, and contributed Chinese efforts to the maintenance of peace and stability in the country. China has sent multiple batches of guards, defence, infantry, engineering and medical contingents to Mali. They have conducted successful missions, such as armed patrols, guard and defence, engineering support, emergency construction, casualty care and medical support. They have won the recognition of the Malian Government and people. In June, all 398 peacekeepers of the tenth Chinese peacekeeping contingent to MINUSMA were awarded the United Nations Peace Medal of Honour. China will continue to support Mali in safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security and stability and make further contributions to its peaceful development via multilateral and bilateral channels.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of the United Arab Emirates. I would like to thank France, in its capacity as penholder, for steering resolution 2690 (2023) to its conclusion and unanimous adoption that we, the United Arab Emirates, voted in favour of, with some concern. I wish to express my deep gratitude, on behalf of the United Arab Emirates, to Special Representative of the Secretary-General Wane and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) personnel for their efforts and contribution to peace and stability for the people of Mali. We pay tribute to the men and women who have served as peacekeepers, troops and police officers and especially to the Blue Helmets killed while performing their duty in Mali. Their sacrifice is recognized here today by all of us. The United Arab Emirates voted in favour of the resolution today because it directly responds to the request from the host authorities of Mali for the withdrawal of MINUSMA, without delay. The prospect of the United Nations maintaining a political office and peacekeepers in a country, without consent, would be untenable. It would not only run counter to the fundamental principles of peacekeeping, but it would also be unworkable both politically and practically. However, the Council remains responsible for ensuring the proper implementation of today’s resolution, which provides clear timelines and reporting for the drawdown to be completed in an orderly and safe manner. Importantly, it ensures consultations with the transition Government of Mali and those countries contributing troop and police personnel. All efforts should now be focused on successful and safe implementation. The smooth and safe departure of MINUSMA will be no small task given the large number of United Nations personnel and extensive equipment present in the country. We look forward to receiving the Secretary-General’s regular updates in that regard and to continue consultations with regional stakeholders. Strong communication must be at the heart of efforts to move forward — first, between MINUSMA and the transition Government of Mali, in order to ensure strong coordination; and secondly, between MINUSMA and the United Nations country team, particularly with regard to the departure of armed personnel, whose presence helped facilitate their work and life-saving humanitarian assistance. Finally, those citizens for whom the presence of MINUSMA is a protective shield should benefit from clear communication related to drawdown plans. That will also serve in safeguarding Mission personnel against the threat of disinformation or misinformation. Today’s resolution reaffirms the centrality of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali to achieving a sustainable peace in the country. We reaffirm the support of the United Arab Emirates for the international mediation, its efforts for the implementation of the peace agreement, and its engagement with regional actors. Ensuring conclusion of the political transition will also be important. We also underline that regional stability must be preserved. The role of regional actors, including the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States, together with the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel, is vital. MINUSMA is withdrawing from Mali, but Mali and its people will not be left behind. We will count on the Malian transitional authorities’ commitment during this critical phase to respecting the status-of-forces agreement until the departure of MINUSMA and allow for a smooth withdrawal and beyond for peace and security in Mali and the protection of its people. I now resume my function as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of Mali.

The Government of the Republic of Mali takes note of resolution 2690 (2023), just adopted by the Security Council, which terminates the mandate of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), effective as of today, 30 June 2023. We also note the Council’s favourable response to our request for MINUSMA’s immediate withdrawal. The underlying reasons for this request for MINUSMA’s withdrawal were given in this Chamber on 16 June 2023 by His Excellency Mr. Abdoulaye Diop, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Mali (see S/PV.9350). While recognizing that MINUSMA has certainly not achieved its fundamental objective of supporting the Government’s efforts to secure the country, the people and the Government of Mali nonetheless welcome its contributions in other areas, in particular in terms of humanitarian and social assistance and the good offices missions of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General. The Government of Mali notes that, under the terms of the resolution adopted today, the MINUSMA withdrawal process will begin on 1 July and end on 31 December 2023. The Government of the Republic of Mali will make sure that the commitments undertaken in this respect are fulfilled. As a responsible Government, the Malian authorities undertake to cooperate closely with the United Nations Secretariat and MINUSMA in the timely implementation of resolution 2690 (2023). With this in mind, in line with its responsibilities as host country, Mali will uphold the measures taken to ensure the safety and security of MINUSMA personnel, premises, installations and property, until the Mission’s departure on the agreed date. I would also like to reassure Council members of the Government of Mali’s total commitment to relentlessly pursuing its sovereign mission of protecting civilians and property throughout the national territory. In this respect, the Government regrets that the Council continues to consider the situation in Mali as a threat to international peace and security, despite the tangible results achieved on the ground by the Malian Armed Forces, in particular thanks to the strengthening and equipping of the defence apparatus, on the one hand, and with regard to the return to the peaceful and secure constitutional order so dear to His Excellency Colonel Assimi Goïta, President of the Transition, Head of State. And, as you know, Madam President, the successful holding of the constitutional referendum on 18 June 2023 is part of this dynamic. The Government of Mali is also committed to pursuing the efficient and diligent implementation of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, which emerged from the Algiers process, in collaboration with the signatory movements that are willing, with a view to lasting peace, national reconciliation and stability in our country and for the benefit of the Malian people. Before concluding, on behalf of the people and the Government of Mali, I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his commitment to peace in Mali. I would also like to thank all the countries that have contributed troops, police and civilian personnel to MINUSMA over the past 10 years for their efforts and at times the ultimate sacrifice that they have made alongside their fellow soldiers from Mali in the quest for peace in our country. I would like to express the gratitude of the people and the Government of Mali to all States Members of the United Nations for their multifaceted contributions to MINUSMA. The Republic of Mali is ready to cooperate with all willing partners that respect the key principles of Mali’s public action. I pay tribute to the memory of all the civilian victims of the crisis and all the foreign and Malian soldiers who died in battle in Mali.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. Before adjourning the meeting, as this is the last scheduled meeting of the Council for the month of June, I would like to express the sincere appreciation of the delegation of the United Arab Emirates to the members of the Council and the Secretariat of the Council for all the support they have given us. It has indeed been a busy month, and one in which we rallied to consensus on several important issues within our purview. We could not have done it alone or without the hard work, support and positive contributions of every delegation and the representatives of the Secretariat, including the technical-support team, conference-service officers, interpreters, translators, verbatim reporters and security staff. As we end our presidency, I know I speak on behalf of the entire Council in wishing the delegation of the United Kingdom good luck for the month of July.