It was a message of concern, but also of encouragement for lasting peace and political and economic reform that the EU sent to the Mozambican authorities in the Council conclusions adopted by written procedure on Wednesday 22 April.
The Council of the EU noted the importance of the Peace and National Reconciliation Agreement signed in August 2019 by the Government of Mozambique and RENAMO, while also emphasising that disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of combatants and effective decentralisation are essential for lasting reconciliation.
They also express their concern about the continuing deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in the province of Cabo Delgado, the target of attacks by an Islamist group affiliated with the Islamic State. They therefore called on the authorities in Mozambique to take effective measures to protect their citizens, to conduct investigations in order to bring the perpetrators to justice, and to determine the role of terrorist organisations.
Dialogue on aid. The EU stands ready to engage in a dialogue aimed at identifying effective options for assistance, and to support cross-border cooperation between Mozambique and its neighbours. The EU is also ready to work with Mozambique to promote sustainable economic transformation and diversification, while supporting the country in the reforms needed for economic and political governance.
Reaffirming its solidarity with Mozambique, the EU expressed their readiness to support the Government in its efforts to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health sector, as well as the wider humanitarian, social and economic impact, especially in respect of the poorest and most vulnerable populations. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)