"France welcomes the renewal of MINUSCA’s mandate." [fr]

Thank you Mr. President,
France welcomes the renewal of MINUSCA’s mandate. This resolution maintains the robust mandate of MINUSCA, which is operating in a difficult environment. The situation in the Central African Republic remains fragile and the country still needs MINUSCA.

During these negotiations, France listened to the positions of each Council member. We regret, of course, the abstentions because MINUSCA needs our unanimous support.

France has also listened to the Central African Republic. Consultations were held in Bangui in early October, where a French delegation went to hear the expectations of the Central African authorities. The draft resolution has been adapted accordingly, as evidenced first by the prospect of a strategic review once MINUSCA has reached full operational capacity, and second by MINUSCA’s continued support for the extension of the Central African State’s authority over its territory. We have worked tirelessly to promote consensus, to reconcile the sometimes divergent positions of the members of this Council, while ensuring that MINUSCA’s mandate is preserved.

The resolution we have just adopted contains two main messages, which I would like to recall briefly:
First, this resolution will allow MINUSCA to continue its support for the peace process in the Central African Republic, and the Council welcomes the progress observed. It encourages the Central African authorities to continue their efforts to implement the Luanda road map, with the support of regional organizations and countries of the region, of course.

The second message of this resolution concerns the freedom of movement of MINUSCA. As you know, it must be guaranteed without restriction. It is also essential for the safety of the peacekeepers, as the tragic attack in early October that took the lives of three Bangladeshi peacekeepers reminded us. This is why the Security Council calls in this resolution on the Central African authorities to lift the ban on night flights in the Central African Republic.

In conclusion, I would like to reiterate France’s full support for the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Valentine Rugwabiza, and pay tribute to the commitment of MINUSCA personnel to peace in the Central African Republic.

Thank you.