Brussels, 20/07/2015 (Agence Europe) - The European Union called on Monday 20 July for the peace agreement signed a month ago by all the parties in Mali to be implemented swiftly, stressing that the first stop must be “absolute and durable respect of the current ceasefire agreement” (see EUROPE 11340).
In conclusions unanimously adopted on the sidelines of the meeting of EU foreign affairs ministers in Luxembourg, the Council of the EU states that the agreement is “an important milestone on the road to peace and stability in Mali and the wider Sahel Region” and “the priority now” is for swift and comprehensive implementation, if the Malian people are to “experience a tangible peace dividend”.
This includes progress on governance, rule of law, reform of the justice and security sectors and the bringing to justice of those responsible for abuses or violations of human rights, the Council states. Reiterating the importance of “durable and inclusive peace building”, the EU underlines the need for full involvement of both women and men in the implementation of the agreement and the particular importance of promoting opportunities for youth. The EU reaffirms its commitment to support the process, primary responsibility for which rests with all Malian parties themselves. (Aminata Niang)