The Secretary-General met today with President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita of Mali. They discussed the latest developments in Mali, including prospects for the launch of a dialogue with the armed groups in the North, as well as the role of MINUSMA in support of the political process and stabilization of Mali.

The Secretary-General commended in that regard the leadership demonstrated by President Keita since his election, last year, to advance the peace process in Northern Mali, and encouraged him to launch as soon as possible the dialogue process with the armed groups in the North.

The President informed the Secretary-General about ongoing initiatives in that regard, and called on the United Nations to continue to assist the Malian authorities in its efforts to consolidate peace, stability and State authority throughout the country.