Statement by Permanent Representative Vassily Nebenzia after the UN Security Council vote on CAR santions
The Russian delegation voted in support of the draft resolution proposed by France about introducing amendments to the Security Council sanctions regime that is in effect regarding the Central African Republic.
We have invested our consistent efforts in, and we continue to insist on the necessity to mitigate the international arms embargo regarding Bangui given account for the dynamic of military and political situation on the ground.
We are satisfied that our arguments were taken into account and properly considered when elaborating the French draft.
At the same time we urge not to forget that the authorities of the CAR expect the Council to move on and introduce a deeper modification to the Central African arms embargo. In our view, there is every reason to do so.
That is why we intend to get back to the issue of further mitigation during the discussions of another draft resolution on the CAR sanctions to take place in January. We expect that by that time all our colleagues in the Council will be up to substantial practical decisions on that matter. This would fully meet the interests of strengthening governmental enforcement mechanisms, spread of state institutions, ensuring stability and legal order throughout the entire territory of the country. Besides, it would add to successful implementation of the Khartoum peace agreement of 6 February 2019 – something that as we see all the Council members are interested in.
We will continue assisting the authorities of the Central African Republic in reforming national security sector, i.a. in the area of strengthening combat and staff capacity of the country’s military forces. Upon the request of CAR’s leadership we provide gratuitous military and technical assistance to Bangui. Two shipments of light and small arms have been made. Russian trainers have received assignments to help train Central African military officers. A number of events have been held that aimed to improve the humanitarian and social situation, create favorable conditions for inter-religious and inter-ethnic dialogue.
We intend to continue providing all-sided assistance to the Central African Republic, and take active steps to ensure sustainable peace in the country. We stand open for mutually respectful dialogue with everyone who is involved in search for ways to normalize the situation. We believe, in current circumstances the Central African “pitch” urgently requires constructive interaction of all international players.
