Condemning Lethal Attack against Mali Peacekeeping Convoy, Secretary-General Says Such Incidents Will Not Alter Mission’s Determination to Help People

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

The Secretary-General condemns today’s attack by means of an explosive device against a convoy of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) travelling on the Goundam-Timbuktu axis in the Timbuktu region.  The attack resulted in the death of one civilian staff member.

The Secretary-General wishes to reaffirm that such attacks will not alter the determination of the United Nations to support the Malian people and the peace process, including through its assistance to the ongoing implementation of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali.  MINUSMA continues to strengthen measures aimed at countering explosive threats in Mali for the protection of United Nations personnel and Malian people alike.

The Secretary-General commends the brave men and women serving in MINUSMA for their efforts to bring lasting peace to Mali under such difficult conditions.  He wishes to express his sincere condolences to the family of the victim.