EC reaffirms support for Mali peace process

The European Council welcomed Algeria’s efforts that led to the signing of the Peace Agreement in Mali and reaffirmed its commitment to support the process in the countries of the Sahel, according to a statement APS received Monday.
At a meeting, the European Council reaffirmed its commitment, alongside the other members of the Mediation and the international community, to “support the peace process in Mali by all appropriate means and instruments” while playing “an active role” in the monitoring process.
It stressed that the signing of the peace agreement on May 15 and June 20 by all parties in Bamako, is “a crucial step in restoring peace, stability and security.”
The Council called in a communiqué to “absolute and lasting respect” of the agreement in order to improve the living conditions of the population and rebuild the mutual trust that will promote national reconciliation.
The Council also stressed the need for “rapid and complete” implementation of the agreement and underscored “the importance of building sustainable and inclusive peace in Mali, with the full participation of women and men.”
Regarding the security issue in the region, the European Council condemned all terrorist attacks, stressing that all parties must ensure the protection of civilians, including United Nations staff and humanitarian workers.