S/PV.9946 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 Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2025/383, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the Central African Republic. I now give the floor to Mr. Lacroix.

I am grateful for this opportunity to brief the Council on the situation in the Central African Republic, in accordance with the report of the Secretary-General of 13 June (S/2025/383), and on subsequent developments. I would like to begin by expressing my most sincere condolences to the Central African Republic, to the bereaved families and to those injured, following yesterday’s tragic fire at Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui. The tragedy, apparently caused by an electrical fault, during the baccalauréat exam period, claimed the lives of 21 people, including 19 girls and the school’s principal. Dozens of others were injured, some critically. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) remains fully engaged with the national authorities and is ready to provide any support needed to respond to that tragedy and to help those affected. Six days ago, a MINUSCA patrol was attacked in Am-Sissia, 34 kilometres north-east of Birao, while carrying out an operation in response to reports of Sudanese armed elements attacking civilians. Suspected Sudanese armed elements opened fire on the patrol, resulting in the tragic loss of a Zambian Blue Helmet. I strongly condemn that attack and offer my most sincere condolences to the victim’s family and to the Zambian Government. Another Zambian Blue Helmet was injured and is being treated. I reiterate my appeal to the authorities of the Central African Republic to spare no effort in investigating and bringing to justice the perpetrators of that heinous attack. This year is of particular importance for the Central African Republic, as the country prepares to hold local, presidential and legislative elections. While the scheduled holding of presidential and legislative elections is a constitutional requirement, the Government has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the holding of local elections, which are a fundamental element of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, signed in 2019. Recognizing their strategic importance, the Council mandated MINUSCA to provide electoral support for all those elections. The elections represent a crucial opportunity to strengthen democratic governance, promote national reconciliation and consolidate long-term stability. As indicated in the report transmitted to Council members, major efforts have been undertaken to make progress in the revision of the electoral roll through nationwide registration. That process took place without any major security incidents, demonstrating effective collaboration between the national defence forces of the Central African Republic and MINUSCA, as well as the population’s interest in participating in the political process. However, the publication of the final electoral roll, initially scheduled for 29 May, is on hold owing to technical difficulties. Those delays continue to disrupt the schedule of preparatory records for the local elections, which at this stage remains officially scheduled for 31 August. We encourage the Government and the National Electoral Authority to continue their efforts to meet those challenges in close collaboration with the United Nations. Given the delays encountered, official communication from the Government and the National Electoral Authority regarding the next steps in the process, including possible new dates for local elections, is now essential. The electoral process is at a delicate turning point. It is essential to preserve the progress made, mobilize the necessary resources and prevent any setbacks. The political situation remains marked by mistrust and tension between the ruling majority and the opposition, in particular the Bloc républicain pour la défense de la Constitution du 30 mars 2016. The 19 April agreement between the Government and the leaders of the armed groups Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique, aimed at ceasing hostilities and reintegrating them into the political agreement facilitated by the Chadian authorities, paves the way for progress in the peace process and enhanced bilateral cooperation with Chad. The parties to the 19 April agreement are currently striving to respect it and to produce concrete results on the ground. Although significant progress has been made over the years in extending the presence and authority of the State, violence perpetrated mainly by armed groups and militias continues to undermine stability and represents a major threat to civilians, national forces, humanitarian actors and Blue Helmets. The Government continues to work with MINUSCA and its other partners to extend and strengthen its presence throughout the country, and to improve security in border areas through enhanced cooperation with neighbouring countries. The inauguration of the Central African Republic defence forces post at Bembéré in the Lim Pendé prefecture was carried out with the support of MINUSCA, as part of the implementation of the national border management policy. Those efforts must receive continued and sustained support from international partners and must be underpinned by continued progress in security sector governance to enable security institutions to effectively protect the population. Despite those efforts, the security situation remains fragile in the border areas. In the north-east, in the border region with the Sudan, instability is characterized by the spillover of the Sudanese conflict, including incursions by armed groups. In the south-east, instability has been marked by atrocities committed by the Azande Ani Kpi Gbe. Some members of which have been integrated into a parallel recruitment process within the national armed forces and are now targeting the Fulani community, Government forces and their partners, as well as MINUSCA. I once again condemn that attack in the strongest possible terms and again offer my deepest condolences to the family of the peacekeeper and to the people and Government of Kenya. We commend the efforts of the Central African Government to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of those despicable acts, who must be held to account. (spoke in English) The human rights situation in the Central African Republic remains concerning with persistent violations and abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence and grave violations of children’s rights. The Government, with MINUSCA’s support, continues efforts to advance transitional justice mechanisms in the fight against impunity. As the country approaches a critical electoral period, additional efforts are essential to address the persistent violations and abuses and to open the political and civic space, thereby guaranteeing a level playing field for all actors in the electoral process. Progress has also been made in advancing judicial accountability, notably by the Special Criminal Court, which is playing a significant role in the fight against impunity and transitional justice. On 19 June, the Court rendered its third verdict in a trial concerning clashes that occurred in March 2020 in the Ndélé region between two factions of the Front populaire pour la renaissance de la Centrafrique. However, the Special Criminal Court is now entering a critical phase that requires reinforced financial and human resources to sustain and expand its activities. Owing to a lack of voluntary donor funds, the activities of the Court will be at risk by September, which would undermine our collective investment over the past decade. I urge Member States to provide the necessary support to the Court to ensure it can deliver on its mandate through 2028. The humanitarian situation remains dire, as urgent needs continue to outpace available resources. Humanitarian actors have had to reprioritize their efforts by suspending critical services for some of the most vulnerable populations. On a positive note, the Government has sustained its efforts to operationalize the national development plan and is preparing to hold a fundraising round table on the national development plan in Morocco in the coming months. While longer-term development is essential, it is imperative that those efforts be accompanied by strong support for life-saving humanitarian assistance, ensuring a coordinated response that bridges urgent needs and sustainable development. MINUSCA has made important strides in strengthening its cooperation with the national authorities and the private sector to identify opportunities for increased local engagement in its supply chain. At the same time, institutional partnerships are being strengthened to build national capacity and procurement standards and business facilitation. Those efforts not only contribute to job creation and reinforce local markets but also support national priorities to foster private sector growth and economic resilience. The Central African Republic stands at a delicate juncture. The holding of local legislative and presidential elections presents a unique opportunity to strengthen democratic governance and advance national reconciliation. However, those are MINUSCA will continue to play its part, and I call on all Member States to ensure the Mission is appropriately resourced to implement its mandate. To consolidate the considerable but fragile gains, continued national leadership must be accompanied by strengthened international support which will help the people and Government of the Central African Republic to achieve their aspiration of lasting peace. If those efforts are sustained in a spirit of partnership and shared responsibilities, the Central African Republic has the potential to become a true success story not only for Central Africans but also for peacekeeping and for the Security Council.

I thank Mr. Lacroix for his briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

First of all, I would like to thank Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, for his briefing, and above all, for the action of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) to promote peace and stability in the Central African Republic. I would like to welcome the presence among us of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic, Ambassador Marius Nzessioué, and ask him to please convey France’s condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the tragic fire at the Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui yesterday, which the Under-Secretary- General spoke about. The Central African Republic is on the path back to peace and security. In that regard, France welcomes the Government’s efforts in three areas. First, we welcome its efforts to implement the peace process. The ceasefire agreement announced in April between the Government of the Central African Republic and two of the main armed groups with a view to reintegrating them into the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic is a new step forward in that direction. France calls on all armed groups to respect the agreement and to commit themselves in good faith to the national process of disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation. Secondly, with regard to the organization of local elections, the holding of local elections is crucial to further decentralizing the peace process, addressing the root causes of instability and restoring State authority. France has lent its full political and financial support to the organization of those elections and the revision of the electoral register. We welcome the support provided by MINUSCA and call on our international partners to provide the financial and material support needed to finalize the electoral register as quickly as possible. Those elections will be part of a wider electoral cycle, with general elections to be held at the end of the year. It is essential to create conditions conducive to free, transparent and inclusive elections, in particular for women, youth and civil society. The third area for improvement is border management. The Central African Republic’s increased cooperation with States in the region is encouraging. It must be accompanied by continued efforts to extend the authority of the State. In that area, too, MINUSCA is providing vital support in the deployment of representatives of the State throughout the country, and in the Government’s efforts to reform the security sector. Equally important is the support provided to the Central African security forces through logistical and operational support and the conducting of joint patrols. Despite that progress, the security situation remains fragile, and we must continue to support the Central African Government in its efforts to consolidate stability The Under-Secretary General noted that three deadly attacks had hit MINUSCA since the beginning of the year. France condemns those in the strongest terms and expresses its condolences to the families and States of the targeted peacekeepers. We reiterate our full support for MINUSCA, which continues to work under difficult conditions to protect civilians. It must not be hindered in the implementation of its mandate. The insecurity is fuelled by the arms and fighters that continue to circulate between the Central African Republic and neighbouring countries, which benefits armed groups. Reports of incursions into Central African territory by the Rapid Support Forces from the Sudan are a cause for concern. The arms embargo in Darfur must be respected. The Council must continue to support the Government of the Central African Republic in combating illicit flows of weapons and fighters. With that in mind, France will work with all Council members and, of course, with the Central African Republic, to renew the coercive measures against armed groups provided for in resolution 2745 (2024). Peacebuilding in the Central African Republic also depends on continued progress in the fight against impunity. France condemns the persistent violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, including those committed against children. We welcome the work undertaken by the Special Criminal Court, which issued new sentences a few days ago. France provides it with financial support and has deployed an international expert judge to the Court. We call on our international partners to support the Court. France reiterates its full support for the Special Representative. We welcome MINUSCA’s efforts in the area of local procurement, including the organization in Bangui of a seminar co-chaired by the Prime Minister of the Central African Republic. We endorse the recommendation of the Secretary-General to continue that work.

Today’s meeting is of special significance as it is the eightieth anniversary of the signing of the Charter of the United Nations. I thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing and welcome the representative of the Central African Republic to this meeting. China is deeply saddened by the fire at Barthélémy Boganda High School and expresses its condolences to the families of the victims. Since we last met to consider this issue (see S/PV.9864), the overall situation in the Central African Republic has remained stable and is continuing to improve, but the country still faces security, economic and other challenges, and the international community should continue to provide targeted support. In connection with the Secretary-General’s report on this matter (S/2025/383), I would like to emphasize the following three points. First, we should continue to support the political and peace processes in the Central African Republic. During the reporting period, the country’s Government made further progress in conducting the second round of voter registration, promoting disarmament and demobilization and engaging in inclusive dialogue. Meanwhile, the World Bank and the Peacebuilding Fund continue to carry out reintegration support projects in several provinces. China welcomes the return of the Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique groups to the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic and calls Secondly, we should prioritize the safety and security of peacekeepers. Since the beginning of the year, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) has been attacked three times, resulting in the deaths and injuries of a number of peacekeepers, which was shocking and deplorable. China strongly condemns these attacks. We express our condolences for the three peacekeepers who made the ultimate sacrifice and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. We support the Secretariat and MINUSCA in their efforts to fully implement resolution 2518 (2020), which calls for strengthening capacity- building in areas such as situational awareness, detection and monitoring, casualty evacuation and providing peacekeepers with comprehensive multilevel security. Thirdly, we should support the efforts of the Central African Republic to solidify the foundation for peace. The country is in a critical period of economic recovery. Its gross domestic product growth has rebounded, but it still faces challenges, such as a widening fiscal deficit, high inflation and power shortages. The international community should prioritize the task of helping the countries concerned to achieve sustainable development and provide more support in areas such as infrastructure development, education and employment, in accordance with the priorities set out in the Central African Republic’s National Development Action Plan, so as to assist in its economic recovery, which will, in turn, help consolidate the foundation for peace. China and the Central African Republic are good friends and partners. At the recent ministerial meeting of the Coordinators for the Implementation of the Outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China announced the implementation of zero tariffs on 100 per cent of the taxable products for 53 African countries that have established diplomatic relations with China. At the same time, China will further facilitate exports to China from African least developed countries. China will actively implement relevant initiatives and make greater contributions to the economic development of the Central African Republic and the improvement of its people’s livelihoods.

We thank Under- Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix for his briefing. We welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in the meeting. First, we would like to express our condolences to the Government of the Central African Republic in connection with the fire at the Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui on 25 June, which claimed the lives of at least 29 people. We are aware that several hundred students were injured, some of whom are in critical condition. Our hearts are with their families and loved ones and with all the people of the Central African Republic. We are pleased to note that the situation in the Central African Republic continues to improve steadily. The Government controls almost the entire national territory, the military capabilities of the national armed forces are growing, and militants have been pushed back to the borders with neighbouring States. We welcome Bangui’s efforts to further advance the political process. In April, the Government of the Central African Republic Government once again demonstrated, through concrete action, its commitment to political resolution. We call on the groups willing to engage in negotiation to seize this new opportunity and to constructively enter into dialogue with the authorities. These groups can join the ranks of the thousands of fighters who have laid down their arms and have been disarmed or are currently undergoing the process of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration. Abandoning armed struggle is the only path; the alternative to this is a one-way ticket to nowhere. The situation in the Central African Republic is being adversely impacted by the military and political crisis in the neighbouring Sudan. It is precisely in the area along the porous border with the Sudan where the Rapid Support Forces militants are particularly active. Establishing State control over both sides of the border would be the most reliable way to resolve these problems. In addition, the events unfolding in the Sudan, as is well known, have also compelled tens of thousands of refugees to seek shelter in the Central African Republic, which has exacerbated the already difficult humanitarian situation there. It is clear that the international community must continue to support Bangui in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, with a focus on the priorities of the Central African people themselves. That is particularly important in the run-up to elections. The successful conduct of elections at various levels, including municipal elections, which would be held for the first time in decades, will once again demonstrate that the Central African Republic is back on track to restoring peaceful civilian life. We trust that the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) will help to facilitate Bangui’s efforts to organize elections. We support the work of the Mission and its leadership. We are grateful to the military personnel of the troop-contributing countries for their commitment to fulfilling their mandate. We call on MINUSCA to maintain constructive, respectful dialogue and mutual understanding with the host State. We have no doubt that our Central African friends will be able to convert their achievements in the field of security into real progress on the path of socioeconomic development. The normalization of the situation in the Central African Republic will be irreversible if there is a continued external support, including from the United Nations and international financial institutions. At the same time, such support should be rooted in the principles of non-intervention in domestic affairs and respect for national sovereignty. There is no room here for obsolete and discredited colonial practices or their modern manifestations. Russia intends to continue to contribute to upholding peace and security throughout the Central African Republic territory. Our cooperation with Bangui is based on mutual respect and equality and is valued by the leadership of our countries.

I thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing today. The United Kingdom joins Under-Secretary-General Lacroix and other members of the Council in expressing our condolences to all of those affected by the tragic incident at Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui yesterday. We would also like to express our condolences to the family of the Zambian peacekeeper killed on 20 June. As the Under-Secretary-General said, this marks the third deadly attack against the patrols of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) since the beginning of 2025, and it serves as a stark reminder of the volatile security situation the Mission operates in. The United Kingdom strongly condemns all attacks on United Nations peacekeepers. I will make three points in that regard. Secondly, the United Kingdom welcomes the 19 April announcement that the leaders of armed groups Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique agreed to cease hostilities and rejoin the 2019 peace agreement. We also take note of the progress made on the extension of State authority in some areas of the country. However, the United Kingdom remains concerned at the volatile security situation across the Central African Republic. That includes attacks by armed groups against civilians, humanitarian workers, national defence and security forces and MINUSCA. We encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to further consider its security partners, to ensure that the people of the Central African Republic can enjoy the peace they deserve. The United Kingdom also remains concerned by the impact of the Sudan conflict on the Central African Republic, and we encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to enhance border management with the Sudan to support refugees and to prevent their exploitation by armed elements. Thirdly, the United Kingdom is concerned by the 15 per cent increase in human rights abuses and violations across the Central African Republic, as detailed in the report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/383). We urge the Government of the Central African Republic to continue to take action against the perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses, including those committed by Wagner Ti Azande and other armed groups. In conclusion, the United Kingdom remains committed to supporting the Government and people of the Central African Republic to consolidate genuine long- term peace, security and prosperity.

We express our gratitude to Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing. At the outset, let me offer our condolences to the Government of the Central African Republic and the families of the 29 children who lost their lives tragically in an explosion and stampede in a school in Bangui yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. We wish the injured a speedy recovery. Pakistan condemns the 20 June attack on peacekeepers of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) that killed a Zambian peacekeeper. We extend condolences to his family and to the Government of Zambia. In addition to that incident, attacks on MINUSCA peacekeepers have increased, resulting in casualties among Kenyan and Tunisian peacekeepers earlier this year. That reminds us of the collective conditions in which our peacekeepers perform their mandates. We call for accountability for the perpetrators of attacks on peacekeepers and reiterate that such attacks constitute war crimes. I wish to emphasize the following four points. First, Pakistan commends the Central African Republic’s efforts to conduct local elections, the first in 30 years, scheduled for 2025 and 2026. The completion of the voter registration process will be a critical step forward towards holding those elections. However, serious logistical security and particularly financial hurdles remain. We urge the international community to bridge the $9 million gap to ensure funding for the smooth conduct of elections. Thirdly, the humanitarian crisis in the Central African Republic, exacerbated by the refugee crisis, displacement and climate change, demands urgent attention. The 2025 response plan is only 13.4 per cent funded, risking aid cuts for 1.8 million vulnerable people, including thousands of refugees affected by the spillover of the conflict in the Sudan. The humanitarian response plan needs to be adequately funded. Lastly, Pakistan expresses deep appreciation to MINUSCA for its efforts to promote peace in the Central African Republic, particularly its support for elections. Pakistan is proud to have 1,400 troops serving in MINUSCA. We will soon deploy a level II field hospital in the Mission which will provide medical facilities to uniformed personnel, civilian staff, Government officials and the local population. MINUSCA has demonstrated its ability to anticipate, innovate and adapt in addressing operational challenges. However, MINUSCA’s operational capacity is crippled by $410.7 million in unpaid contributions. Pakistan urges Member States to pay their contributions in full and on time to enable the Mission to perform its tasks effectively.

I thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his informative briefing today on the situation in the Central African Republic. The United States offers its condolences to Kenya and Zambia and all the friends and family of the fallen and injured peacekeepers of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) after the attacks in March and just this week. We condemn all attacks against peacekeepers and call on the Government in the Central African Republic to hold perpetrators accountable. In addition, we offer our condolences to the people of the Central African Republic for the tragic incident at a school in Bangui yesterday. We remain concerned by persistent insecurity in the Central African Republic. Amid challenging circumstances, however, we recognize points of progress. In April, several armed groups made formal commitments to cease hostilities and rejoin the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. In preparation for elections, the parties must uphold constructive political engagement and maintain freedom of expression. We are encouraged by expressions of openness to dialogue in recent months and we urge all sides to engage constructively in political dialogue. Positive developments notwithstanding, the Central African Republic still faces many challenges on its path to peace. Attacks by armed groups continue to destabilize the country, threatening civilian populations and impeding the operations of MINUSCA personnel and humanitarian organizations. We are further concerned with how Government regulations on fuel imports restrict MINUSCA’s operations. Forcing MINUSCA to rely solely on the Government-designated monopoly importer means the Mission faces inflated fuel prices, jeopardizing the Mission’s ability to carry out much-needed tasks. That must We are deeply concerned by allegations against MINUSCA personnel of sexual exploitation and abuse. The 10 allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse outlined in the most recent report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/383) are in addition to nine separate allegations reported since MINUSCA’s November mandate renewal, including three reported just since the release of the report of the Secretary-General. More than a quarter of those cases involve a child. We demand all sexual exploitation and abuse allegations be investigated thoroughly and in a timely manner and we demand accountability for all substantiated incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse. The United States is committed to the noble cause of peace. The success of the Council will be measured by the conflicts that we end. Those efforts include support from the Council to maintain measures that stem the flow of arms that fuel violence and instability. To that end, we look forward to engaging with Member States on renewing the sanctions regime pursuant to resolution 2745 (2024) in July. In conclusion, we call on all armed actors to lay down their weapons and join the process for peace and, in the run-up to historic local elections, we urge the Government and the political opposition to engage in open dialogue to reduce political tensions.

Let me begin by thanking Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his comprehensive briefing. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic to this briefing. We meet today, just days after a tragic attack that claimed the life of a Zambian peacekeeper and three months after an attack that killed a peacekeeper from Kenya. Our deepest condolences go to their families and the Governments of Kenya and Zambia. We have said it before, and I will say it again: we condemn attacks on Blue Helmets in the strongest possible terms. Those responsible must be brought to justice. We also wish to join others in expressing our sincere condolences to the Government of the Central African Republic and all those affected by yesterday’s tragedy at the Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui. I would like to make three additional points. First, we welcome the recent ceasefire agreement reached with the Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and the Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique and their return to the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. The ceasefire agreement must be implemented, and remaining armed groups should immediately cease hostilities and join the peace process. We are also monitoring very closely the continued violence in the border regions in the east and west of the country. The spillover of violence from the Sudan is a cause for serious concern. Let me be clear: the rules of war also apply to this situation. All parties must ensure their compliance with international humanitarian law. Slovenia welcomes the proactive peacekeeping posture of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). To ensure the safety of civilians and its own personnel, MINUSCA should be equipped with adequate air support and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Let me use this opportunity to also urge national authorities to avoid any disruptions that could impede MINUSCA’s operations. Secondly, we welcome the intensified efforts by the Central African Republic Government to complete voter registration and prepare for the upcoming local elections. We particularly commend initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in the electoral process. Member States and regional organizations should continue to provide financial and other kinds of support to help to ensure a conducive environment for free, fair, transparent, peaceful and inclusive elections, Finally, we are concerned about the financial challenges faced by the Special Criminal Court. Ensuring accountability for serious violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law is essential to the peace process and long- term stabilization. We therefore urge the international community to ensure that the Court remains adequately funded to avoid jeopardizing ongoing investigations and trials. For more than a decade, the Central African Republic has been on a gradual path towards peace and stability. Slovenia stands ready to continue supporting the country as it moves from conflict towards development and lasting progress.

Let me thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing today. At the outset, I wish to express Denmark’s deepest condolences to the family, friends and comrades of the brave Blue Helmet killed last week in the Central African Republic. We express our sincere appreciation to the personnel of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), who continue to serve with courage and dedication despite the challenging operational and security environment they face. Furthermore, we are profoundly saddened by the recent news of a mass casualty event caused by a fire at a school in Bangui. We too express our sincere condolences to the families of those young students whose lives were tragically cut short. We wish a speedy recovery to the many who remain injured, some of whom we understand are in a critical condition. Denmark welcomes MINUSCA’s efforts to implement its critical mandate. While there have been important steps forward since we last met (see S/PV.9758), the Central African Republic still faces overlapping humanitarian, political and security crises. In that regard, the Security Council must remain focused, steadfast and committed to its support. I would like to highlight three key points today. First, Denmark strongly supports the holding of local elections — an important milestone on the path towards stability and democratic renewal. We commend the work of the Central African Republic authorities, the National Electoral Authority, MINUSCA and the United Nations Development Programme in preparing the ground. The elections must be safe, inclusive and transparent. It is essential that all groups in society — especially women, young voters and internally displaced persons — can participate fully and freely. We call for the finalization of the electoral voting register and commend the work of MINUSCA’s technical teams in supporting the Central African Republic Government to that end. Secondly, regarding advancing the peace process, we welcome the 19 April agreement reached in N’Djamena by the leaders of Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and Unité pour la paix en Centrafrique. Their commitment to ceasing hostilities and rejoining the political process is a step in the right direction and could help to restore trust and reduce violence ahead of the elections. That renewed momentum for lasting peace must be seized. Thirdly, Denmark remains deeply concerned about the fragile security situation across the country. Armed attacks continue to threaten civilians, including children, humanitarian actors and United Nations personnel alike. We condemn in the strongest terms the recent attacks on MINUSCA patrols on 14 and 20 June. Such attacks are unacceptable and represent a worrisome trend. All attacks must be investigated and the perpetrators held to account. Peacekeepers should never be the target of violence. Denmark is also alarmed by the growing insecurity in the border areas. Spillover from the Sudan and clashes between national forces and armed groups in the east In conclusion, the Central African Republic stands at a crossroads. Denmark echoes the Secretary-General’s call for constructive political engagement, full respect for human rights and the protection of fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. We support the work of MINUSCA in fighting against impunity and the important contribution the Mission makes in bringing justice to the victims and survivors of violence in the Central African Republic. In that regard, we note the recent decision by the Special Criminal Court for crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in March 2020. As we move towards local elections, voters must be free to cast their ballot and be safe while doing so. We urge all partners to remain engaged and to seize this moment to build a future rooted in peace, accountability and inclusion across the country and the region.

I thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing. I also welcome the representative of the Central African Republic to today’s meeting. Before I begin, the Republic of Korea strongly condemns last week’s attack, which claimed the life of a peacekeeper from the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the bereaved and to Zambia. It marks the third deadly attack on MINUSCA patrols this year, among more than 120 reported security incidents in the past four months alone. We reiterate that attacks against peacekeepers may constitute war crimes. We also extend our deepest condolences to the families of the children who were killed or injured and the people of the Central African Republic following the tragic explosion at the Barthélémy Boganda High School yesterday. I wish to highlight three points today. First, the Republic of Korea remains concerned about the persistent security threats in certain areas of the Central African Republic. In the east, the spillover of the conflict in the Sudan is deeply troubling. The armed incursion of Sudanese Rapid Support Forces and their collaboration with local armed groups in the border areas significantly undermine regional stability and exacerbate humanitarian needs in an already fragile landscape. In addition, intercommunal tensions in the south-east and transhumance-related violence in the west continue to harm innocent civilians. It is particularly alarming that human rights violations and abuses perpetrated by armed groups who are active in the area have increased by 15 per cent over the past four months. That brings me to my second point, which regards the importance of the full implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic and the road map for peace. We are encouraged by the formal commitment of the signatory armed groups in April to ceasing hostilities and re-engaging in the peace process  — a positive development to this end. We look forward to all parties who participated in that agreement to honour their commitments in good faith. All armed groups must lay down their weapons, and the Central African Republic Government should intensify efforts to reform the security sector and implement an effective disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation programme. Thirdly, we call on the Central African Republic Government to uphold its commitment to ensure timely, orderly and inclusive local, legislative and presidential elections. In particular, the completion of the voter registration process will be an essential step in that process. Those local elections, when held, will present a critical opportunity to consolidate the Central African Republic’s hard-won progress thus far, as emphasized in the Peacebuilding Commission’s written advice to the Council. The Central African Republic stands at a pivotal point in its transition from post-conflict recovery to sustainable development. The Republic of Korea reaffirms its steadfast support for the efforts of the Central African Republic Government, Special Representative Rugwabiza and MINUSCA.

I also thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing and the important updates he provided. I join colleagues in sharing our grief and offering our condolences to the families of the victims of the tragic accident that took place in a high school in Bangui yesterday. We also extend our deepest condolences for the loss of a United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) peacekeeper from the troop-contributing country of Zambia on 20 June. That is the third loss of a Blue Helmet, fallen in the line of duty this year, as the result of malicious acts in the Central African Republic. The incident, which took place in the north-east region, is indicative of lurking regional threats with the ability to undermine positive developments and fuel persistent security challenges within the country’s borders. Valuing the safety and security of United Nations personnel, we call for accountability for the perpetrators and emphasize that attacks against peacekeepers may constitute potential war crimes. Allow me to make the following three points. First, on the political stage, we are following the preparations undertaken in the Central African Republic for the prospective significant electoral calendar. Proper electoral registration, respect for civil and political rights and support for an environment of safe and equal participation of political parties and individuals in the electoral processes is of the utmost importance. This is an opportunity for the Central African Republic to build upon the gains achieved in improvements in the security environment and to turn them into a solid political foundation of electoral integration, democratic processing and institution-building, as well as the development of a free and independent press. An expanding political and civic space is the most reliable pathway towards a demonstrated commitment by all stakeholders to further implement the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. Secondly, as already stated, we express concern over the significant ramifications of ongoing regional conflicts, especially the crisis in the Sudan, for the country’s security. Further enhancement of the border management policy, by increasing efforts to combat the illicit transit of armed groups, as well as securing the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance across the Central African Republic’s prefectures, must remain top priorities of the authorities, supported by MINUSCA. Thirdly, as we mark, this month, the tenth anniversary of the establishment in Bangui of the Special Criminal Court, we commend the continuous contribution of that domestic hybrid tribunal to transitional justice and stability, through addressing complex cases and holding perpetrators of serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law accountable. At the same time, according to this year’s annual report of the Secretary- General on children and armed conflict (S/2025/247), we continue to observe serious violations against children, especially recruitment and use, with increasing instances On a more general note, we take note of the persistence of conflict-related sexual violence across the country, with many incidents being documented by MINUSCA, especially against women and girls. In conclusion, allow me to reconfirm Greece’s steadfast support for the critical work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and for all MINUSCA personnel. It is their multifaceted and courageous contribution on the ground, under complicated circumstances, that is transformed into meaningful support for the Central African Republic’s national stabilization and peacebuilding efforts.

We thank Under-Secretary- General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix for his detailed report on the situation in the Central African Republic and the update on the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). We welcome the representative of the Central African Republic who is with us. We would first like to express our sincere condolences to the family of the Zambian peacekeeper who lost his life on 20 June. That heinous act, perpetrated against those who dedicate their lives to protecting civilians and strengthening peace in the Central African Republic, is unacceptable and must be unequivocally condemned. We also express our deep shock at yesterday’s tragic loss of life at the Barthélémy Boganda High School in Bangui, at which an accidental explosion triggered a deadly stampede among students taking their exams. We deeply regret the death of the students as well as the principal of the school. We offer our best wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured and extend our condolences to their families, the educational community and the people of the Central African Republic. The Central African Republic has taken important steps towards consolidating peace and democracy, as evidenced by the registration of more than 570,000 new voters and the opening of the first multi-service post on the border with Chad. We also welcome the significant progress achieved in collaboration with MINUSCA, in particular the progressive deployment of defence and security forces throughout the country. That collaboration, supported logistically by the Mission, has led to unprecedented joint deployments and coordinated responses to security challenges. Its importance lies not only in preserving the gains made but also in ensuring progress towards free, fair and transparent elections in 2025. However, pockets of insecurity persist, especially in border areas and in regions in which armed groups try to maintain control, particularly in mining sites and transhumance corridors. That fragility, coupled with the threat posed by the conflict in the Sudan, underlines the urgency of continued international support. Consolidating progress and securing lasting peace requires ensuring that the necessary resources are allocated in a timely and adequate manner. The Government of the Central African Republic has made remarkable efforts in creating strategic frameworks for security sector reform and governance, which is essential for the national forces to effectively assume their sovereign responsibility to protect the population and safeguard territorial integrity. In that context, we urge the Government to prioritize the finalization of the military programming law, which will allow for a clearer articulation of the needs of the defence sector. In addition, we call on international partners to continue providing technical and institutional support to strengthen the sector’s capacity. While strengthening security capacities is crucial to ensure stability, it is also essential that security gains translate into tangible benefits for the population. Therefore, we urge Member States and United Nations agencies to continue to Experience has taught us that abandoning a peace mission too soon can cost more than sustaining it. Investments in stability should not be withdrawn when they are beginning to bear fruit. Panama therefore reiterates that MINUSCA must have the necessary resources to carry out its mandate with integrity, efficiency and continuity. The road to lasting peace in the Central African Republic will not be easy, but it is possible. Panama will continue to support the Council and the Central African people in a spirit of solidarity, respect for their sovereignty and commitment to peace.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Guyana. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council, namely Algeria, Somalia, Sierra Leone, and my own country, Guyana (A3+). We thank Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, for his briefing and welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting. The A3+ reaffirms its full support for the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and expresses deep appreciation to all troop- and police-contributing countries for their commitment to advancing the Mission’s mandate, even under difficult circumstances. We strongly condemn the attack carried out on Friday in Am-Sissia village, which resulted in the death of a third MINUSCA peacekeeper this year, following the attacks of February and March. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the fallen peacekeeper, the Zambian Government and MINUSCA. We emphasize that the deliberate targeting of peacekeepers may constitute a war crime and call for a swift investigation and for the perpetrators to be held fully accountable. We urge all parties to honour their obligations and respect international humanitarian law and to ensure the safety and security of all United Nations personnel. We also express our condolences to the families and to the people and the Government of the Central African Republic following yesterday’s explosion near the Barthélémy Boganda High School, which resulted in a stampede that caused at least 21 fatalities. We welcome MINUSCA’s role in responding promptly in order to provide medical services for those affected. The A3+ welcomes the ongoing implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, which continues to provide a foundation for inclusive political dialogue and national reconciliation. We note the progress achieved, particularly the integration of nine out of 14 armed groups. That reflects genuine steps towards demobilization and reintegration. We are encouraged by the continued expansion of State authority across the country but remain concerned about the ineffective implementation of the arms embargo. The A3+ is also alarmed by the persistent insecurity in the north-western, central and eastern regions, exacerbated by armed groups competing over natural resources and trade routes. We reiterate our call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and for non-signatory armed groups to join the peace process in good faith. The A3+ underscores the importance of the upcoming local and national elections as a milestone for democratic consolidation. We commend the efforts of the national authorities, MINUSCA, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other partners in supporting electoral preparations, including the We remain seriously concerned about the alarming humanitarian and human rights situation, particularly in areas affected by violence. We take note of the latest joint report by MINUSCA and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights documenting conflict-related sexual violence and violations. We stress the need to strengthen national accountability mechanisms and protect civilians, particularly women and children. The A3+ acknowledges the worsening spillover effects from the Sudan conflict, which pose additional risks to the fragile stability in the Central African Republic. We encourage continued coordination between MINUSCA, the Central African Republic authorities and regional organizations to strengthen border security. The A3+ firmly condemns the incursions by the Rapid Support Forces into the territory of the Central African Republic, and their reported collaboration with local armed groups. We reiterate our concern regarding MINUSCA’s resource constraints, including unpaid assessed contributions, which currently stand at more than $400 million. Adequate, predictable and timely financing is essential for the Mission to deliver on its mandate, especially during this critical electoral period. In conclusion, the A3+ reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the Central African Republic. We stand in solidarity with the Government and the people of the country in their pursuit of peace, stability and development. We reaffirm our continued support for MINUSCA and the efforts of the United Nations and regional actors to build sustainable peace. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I now give the floor to the representative of the Central African Republic.

At the outset, allow me to congratulate you, Madam President, on your presidency of the Security Council the month of June. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Jean- Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, for being here today and for his briefing. I would first like to say a few solemn words about the attack that occurred on 20 June in Am-Sissia, in the Vakaga prefecture, against a United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) patrol, claiming the life of a Zambian Blue Helmet and wounding another. The Government of the Central African Republic condemns in the strongest terms that barbaric act and extends its sincere condolences to the Republic of Zambia, the family of the victim and the United Nations. We reaffirm our commitment to working alongside MINUSCA to ensure the safety and security of civilians and United Nations personnel. The act must not undermine our willingness to achieve peace — it must reinforce it. It obliges us to show greater commitment to building a State governed by the rule of law that protects its civilians, respects multilateral commitments and works in solidarity towards regional stability. I would also like to say a few words about the harrowing tragedy that occurred yesterday, 25 June, at the Barthélémy Boganda High School, leaving the Central African Republic in mourning and claiming the lives — according to our preliminary For my country, this meeting is of particular importance because, in addition to sharing developments in the situation with the members of the Security Council, it is also an opportunity for us to renew our commitment to peace, security, the consolidation of democracy and international cooperation, while we celebrate the eightieth anniversary of the Charter of the United Nations. For more than a decade, the people of the Central African Republic have been hoping to turn the page on recurrent conflict and build a stable, reconciled and prosperous society. The road ahead remains fraught with difficulties but recent progress, particularly in the implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, bear witness to a consistent political will to break the cycle of violence. That will is upheld by the deep conviction that we must move away from the mindset of confrontation and, thankfully, move towards one of dialogue, listening and shared responsibility. It was in that spirit that the President of the Republic embarked on a process of political détente, resulting in the authorization and safeguarding by the internal security forces of the opposition’s peaceful march on 4 April and in the acceptance of the political dialogue proposed by the opposition. The political dialogue envisaged by the authorities of the Central African Republic is not the result of a foreign imposition. It is a response to a formal request from the republican opposition, in particular the members of the Bloc républicain pour la défense de la Constitution. The President of the Republic gave his agreement, in principle, to that request, thereby demonstrating his willingness to listen and discuss, within a republican and constructive framework. He also asked the representatives of the opposition to define precisely the issues to be addressed, demonstrating a willingness to open up a seriously structured national process geared towards general interests and respectful of the institutions of the Republic. In the same spirit of dialogue and mutual understanding, decisive progress was made on 19 April 2025 with the signing in N’Djamena, under the mediation of President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno of Chad, of a ceasefire agreement between the Central African Republic Government and the Retour, réclamation et réhabilitation and Union pour la paix en Centrafrique armed groups. That agreement, supported by the African Union and the Economic Community of Central African States, enshrines the forthcoming dissolution of those entities and their reintegration into the framework of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation. It is a turning point that considerably reduces the risk of a resurgence of violence in several sensitive areas. Through me, the Central African Republic would like to welcome the commitment of those armed groups and calls on all others that are still outside the process to join it in a spirit of national reconciliation. For us, it is imperative that that process benefit from sustained and consistent international support. Today, thanks to coordination among the administrative authorities, the internal security forces, the Armed Forces of the Central African Republic and our partners, the State has become a reality in many prefectures. In those places, the people hoisted the national flag as a sign of their commitment to the Republic. The lifting of the arms embargo in July 2024 was a turning point. It enabled us to equip our forces within a legal and transparent framework. Deployed in all the prefectures, the Armed Forces of the Central African Republic are now working with MINUSCA and bilateral partners on joint security missions. But force alone is not enough. We have set up prefectural implementation committees to entrench peace locally, prevent tensions and rebuild trust. Those forums for participatory dialogue reflect our commitment to a peace based on listening and closeness. To guarantee that closeness and accountability to our fellow citizens, the Central African Republic has embarked on a profound institutional transformation. For the first time in more than 30 years, we are holding local elections. That process, supported by MINUSCA, the United Nations Development Programme and a number of partners, reflects our determination to entrench local democracy. On 17 May, the National Assembly adopted a derogation provision to allow the election to be held in 2025. The timetable is under control and the electoral teams are mobilized. However, a funding shortfall of $9 million is threatening the process. We are once again appealing for international solidarity to ensure that the democratic momentum is not impeded. Justice is at the heart of our reconstruction. It restores confidence, eases suffering and gives meaning to the rule of law. Thanks to the support of MINUSCA, the Human Rights Council, the European Union and several non-governmental organizations, we have strengthened access to rights, trained magistrates and deployed legal clinics in remote areas. We know that rebuilding justice is not enough. We also need to guarantee its dignity. Therefore, we have launched a coordinated reform of prison conditions, bringing together the Ministries of Justice and Health in an interministerial standing committee. The committee inspected eight prisons, made immediate recommendations, relieved overcrowding in several facilities and launched a process to review provisional sentences. In Bouar, Berberati and Kaga Bandoro, those efforts have helped to improve living conditions for prisoners, facilitate family visits, re-establish healthcare systems and improve internal security. In addition, a procedural reform has been initiated to speed up the processing of cases, avoid arbitrary detention, guarantee prompt access to a lawyer and strictly control the use of police custody. However, those efforts would not be complete without taking into account the reality of specific forms of violence, in particular those against women and children. The Central African Republic has taken a decisive step by setting up a national hotline for victims of gender-based violence, with the support of the United Nations Population Fund and UN-WOMEN. That 24-hour hotline has dealt with more than 1,000 cases in only a few months. It is connected to 22 community listening centres in the prefectures. At the same time, 180 gendarmes have been trained in techniques for receiving and protecting victims. Specialized units have been integrated into the That work is still in its infancy, but it is essential. It tells the women of our country that they are no longer alone. It tells the perpetrators that impunity is no longer assured. It tells the country that it must protect before punishing. For us, justice cannot be disconnected from memory. This is why the Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission is continuing its documentation, listening and analysis endeavours. It is active in eight pilot prefectures, collecting stories, proposing remedial measures and supporting community reintegration. On 10 April 2025, after a suspension of almost a year, the Commission officially resumed its work with the swearing-in of new commissioners. That relaunch reflects a renewed political commitment to remembrance, truth and reparation. It does not judge, but names. It does not condemn, but restores. And in a country that has suffered so much from forgetting, that official remembrance is a form of recognition. It opens the way to moral reparation and symbolic reconstruction. The Central African Republic also reaffirms its support for the Special Criminal Court, which represents a concerted response to serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. We recognize the role that that hybrid jurisdiction, supported by the United Nations, plays in combating impunity and restoring confidence in the rule of law. The Government remains committed to cooperating with the Court to guarantee its functional independence and to encourage respect for its decisions throughout the country. The Court is now producing major results and is an invaluable tool for the Central African Republic, reflecting firstly a national and also an international determination to put an end to impunity. The Court’s recent difficulties linked to budgetary constraints owing to the withdrawal of support from a major partner country are a source of concern for the Central African Republic at a time at which it most needs to capitalize on that achievement. I would like to thank the Peacebuilding Commission, as well as Ms. Shoko Noda, Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP’s Crisis Bureau, and Mr. Alexandre Zouev, Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions of the Department of Peace Operations, for their joint visits to the Central African Republic from 18 to 21 March, which allowed them to identify progress and challenges regarding the rule of law and to explore future opportunities to improve collective support for its reinforcement, including via the Special Criminal Court. I would like to invite the various Member States here today to take greater interest in that concern in a spirit of solidarity and mutual commitment to promoting peace and justice. Peace in the Central African Republic also depends on regional stability. The Sudanese conflict represents a genuine threat. Armed groups are crossing our borders, recruiting young people and compromising our sovereignty in clear violation of our territorial integrity. As we have already said, we call on the Security Council to support an inclusive political process in the Sudan, supported by the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and international partners. The Central African Republic is ready to play an active role in regional stabilization. We also hope to see a strengthened presence of MINUSCA in at-risk areas, increased cross-border cooperation and support for national monitoring capacities. The Central African Republic is not permanently in receipt of aid — it contributes actively to stability. It is cooperating with its neighbours, reviving its bilateral frameworks and strengthening its participation in regional forums. It is proposing a new set of rules for shared security. To build on that momentum, a joint force between the Central African Republic and Chad was launched in March. It aims to secure border areas, prevent infiltrations and stop the cross-border flow in weapons. We call on the Council to provide strategic solidarity based on four pillars: political support for our democratic path, institutional support for our reforms, security assistance for our national forces and financial commitment to ensure the completion of the electoral cycle and the deployment of the national development plan for 2024–2028. That plan, based on four priorities — macroeconomic stabilization, productive investment, social inclusion and local governance — will, in September, be the subject of a high-level round table co-organized with the Kingdom of Morocco. It will mark a decisive step in mobilizing the necessary support for the structural transformation of our country. In that quest, the rigorous and impartial implementation of the mandate of the Panel of Experts, particularly when it comes to analysing the illicit transnational networks and trafficking that are funding and supplying the armed groups in the Central African Republic, remains essential. It is precisely in order to preserve the integrity of that mandate that the Central African Republic wishes to express its concern about certain recent actions of the Panel of Experts seen as incompatible with the responsibilities entrusted to it. Those uncoordinated initiatives, undertaken outside authorized frameworks, risk undermining the relationship of trust that has been achieved with the national institutions. The Central African Republic expresses its great concern about the actions recently carried out by certain members of the Panel of Experts, particularly the unauthorized collection of satellite images of strategically important sites. Such initiatives, undertaken outside the framework of the mandate handed down by the Security Council, are seen as incompatible with the spirit of transparency and cooperation that forms the basis of our commitment. Such acts raise questions about their aims and compromise the relationship of trust established with the national authorities. The Central African Republic firmly rejects any illegal activity carried out under the cover of the United Nations that could damage its sovereignty. We call on the sanctions committee and the Secretary-General to carry out an assessment of those practices to guarantee constructive cooperation that respects the sovereignty of States, examine those incidents seriously and draw the necessary conclusions in order to prevent any further misunderstandings. As things stand, in its current configuration, the Panel of Experts no longer benefits from the trust of the Central African authorities. I would like to conclude with a word of hope. As the President of the Republic, His Excellency Mr. Faustin Archange Touadera, recalled, peace is not a conference slogan — it is a fatigue that we must bear, a risk that we must take and a commitment that we must renew even when all else fails. Today that commitment exists. It can be seen in the progress obtained, the challenges met, the schools opened, the children at school, the women protected and the markets reactivated. It can be seen in the villages where the guns are being silenced and the prefectures flying our national colours. What we are asking for is recognition of the progress achieved, support for the efforts being made and confidence in a promise. The Central African Republic is not an emergency situation — it is a promise of rebirth, and that promise is not asking to be saved but rather to be supported.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion of the subject.