The UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) has concluded the initial stage of its peacekeeping troop withdrawal from the West African country. As reported by France24, the Blue Helmets have vacated the final bases marked for the first phase, situated near the towns of Ber and Goundam in the northern region, along with Menaka in the eastern part of the country. The commencement of the second and final phase is underway, with the conclusion anticipated by December 31, 2023.
"The peacekeepers have vacated the final bases of the initial phase - Ber and Goundam, as well as Menaka," MINUSMA head El-Ghassim Wane was quoted by the TV channel. - "The upcoming second phase will pose greater challenges. It will encompass more bases and involve a larger number of troops. The bases of Tessalit, Aguelhok, and Kidal in the northeast, as well as Ansongo, Douentza, and Mopti in the central part of the country, will be part of this phase. The second phase is scheduled to extend until mid-December, after which the major cities of Timbuktu, Gao, and the capital Bamako will need to be withdrawn within a span of two weeks. In total, approximately 13,000 MINUSMA troops will be evacuated."
The withdrawal of peacekeepers from Mali is being conducted in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2690, which was adopted on June 30 upon the request of the Malian authorities.
UN mission is leaving Mali
The Malian government requested the UN Security Council to withdraw MINUSMA from the country without delay on June 16 of this year. Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, stated that UN peacekeepers had failed to ensure the country's security. The UN Security Council decided on June 30 to terminate MINUSMA's mandate. According to the UN order, the peacekeeping contingent must leave the country by December 31, 2023.
MINUSMA was established in the spring of 2013 by a UN Security Council resolution to support political processes in Mali and perform a number of security tasks.
The mission was requested to support Mali's transitional authorities in stabilizing the country and implementing the transition roadmap. This included focusing on major population centers and lines of communication, protecting civilians, respecting human rights, enabling the provision of humanitarian assistance and the return of displaced persons, restoring State authority and preparing for free, inclusive and peaceful elections.
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Based on materials from TASS