Explanation of vote by Deputy Permanent Representative Anna Evstigneeva after the UNSC vote on a draft resolution on withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission from Mali
Mme.President,
Russia supported the draft UNSC resolution (put forward by France) on withdrawal of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
We think it is important that the Security Council responded unanimously to the request of Mali who made a sovereign decision on further parameters of ensuring security and protection of civilians in the country.
We reiterate our support for Bamako in assuming full responsibility for and the leading role in stabilizing the situation in Mali.
We also thank the peacekeepers and civilian personnel of MINUSMA for their service and dedicated work in supporting the Malians. Russia honors the memory of peacekeepers who sacrificed their lives for the sake of peace and security in Mali.
Withdrawal of MINUSMA should proceed in an orderly and well-organized manner, in close coordination with the host country. We believe the resolution that the Security Council adopted today provides the necessary framework for that.
Russia will continue providing comprehensive bilateral assistance to Mali with the purpose of ensuring stabilization on the country.
Thank you.
