The Secretary-General met today with H.E. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, President of the Republic of Mali. They discussed the security situation in Mali as well as climate change.

The Secretary-General thanked President Keita for his contribution on environmental issues and recognized Mali’s positive engagement in reaching the Paris Agreement on climate change. He called for Mali’s strong ownership of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The Secretary-General commended President Keita for the steps taken to implement the Peace process in Mali. He thanked him for his action against terrorism. They shared concerns over the security situation, and discussed the need for continuing building capacity against violent extremism.

The Secretary-General reaffirmed his full support and informed President Keita that the United Nations is already enhancing its action through MINUSMA to complement his country’s efforts and policies in the political and security areas.