I thank the Government of France, the European Commission and the Government of Mali for organizing this conference to assist the people of Mali and better coordinate support in the period ahead.  The twelve priorities in the Plan for the Sustainable Recovery of Mali reflect the commitment of Mali’s authorities to restore the country’s territorial integrity, promote inclusive growth and restore Mali to the path of peace and security, good governance and long-term development. 

Addressing the crisis in Mali goes beyond addressing security threats.  It will require tackling deep-rooted political, social and development challenges.  Mali’s leaders must work together in the framework of an inclusive national dialogue with the common goals of re-establishing the legitimacy and full authority of the Malian State across its entire territory; providing security and basic services for the population, and ensuring that Mali’s territory is not used as a platform for the further emergence of extremism, terrorism and other threats to its neighbours and itself. 

The upcoming establishment of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission demonstrates the commitment of the international community to help Mali lay the foundations for durable peace and security.  We count on our Malian partners to use this opportunity to promote a sustainable and inclusive political process that will lead to improved governance, including elections -- for which resources need to be mobilized -- national cohesion and reconciliation, and long-term development.

To support the government's efforts, the UN in Mali has prepared the Joint United Nations Framework to Support the Transition, which defines the collective and integrated UN response to the Government's priorities.  The Joint Framework is aligned with the Recovery Plan, and targets the restoration of good governance and sustainable peace while supporting access to basic social services.  It is also part of the broader UN Integrated Strategy for the Sahel, which will soon be presented to the Security Council and offers a coordinated response to the complex issues facing the region.

In considering Mali’s challenges, it is important not to overlook immediate humanitarian needs, which are still considerable and require our urgent attention.  We must also focus greater attention on gender issues and the needs of women in Mali, and on resilience to economic and climatic shocks. 

I count on the international community to provide coordinated support to the Government of Mali, and I commend the efforts of ECOWAS Member States and other African nations in contributing to ending the Mali crisis and other crises in the region.  Enduring peace and prosperity needs solidarity among neighbours. 
I encourage all developing countries to support the Plan for the Sustainable Recovery of Mali.

I pledge to do my utmost to ensure that Mali has a stable and prosperous future.  Please accept my best wishes for a successful conference.