Secretary-General Commends Central African Republic for Adopting Peace, Reconciliation Pact at Bangui National Forum

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General congratulates the people of the Central African Republic for the adoption of the Republican Pact for Peace, National Reconciliation and Reconstruction at the conclusion of the Bangui National Forum, held from 4 to 11 May 2015.  The Pact’s recommendations reflect the aspirations of the people of the Central African Republic to put conflict behind them once and for all and to build a more peaceful and democratic country.

The Secretary-General also commends the Transitional Authorities and the armed groups for the signature of an agreement on the principles for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration within the framework of the Forum and calls for its swift and full implementation.

The Bangui Forum is the result of a historic and inclusive process that amplified the voices of local representatives, women, youth and civil society.  The Secretary-General welcomes the leading role played by women throughout the Forum.  The Secretary-General encourages the Transitional Government, with the support of the United Nations and the international community, to implement the Forum’s recommendations without delay.