Condemning Deadly Attack on United Nations Peacekeepers in Mali, Secretary-General Urges Parties Implement Peace Agreement

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

The Secretary-General condemns today’s improvised explosive device attack against a convoy of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), south of Aguelhok, in Kidal region, that claimed the life of one peacekeeper and injured four others.  It follows a similar attack on 5 August that injured one peacekeeper in the vicinity of Kidal city.

The Secretary-General underscores that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law and calls for the perpetrators of this attack to be brought to justice.  He reiterates that attacks against MINUSMA will not weaken the determination of the Mission to fully implement its mandate in support of the efforts of the Malian Government, the parties to the peace agreement and the people of Mali to achieve lasting peace and stability.

The Secretary-General reminds that the primary responsibility for peace lies with the Malian parties.  He urges them to continue to work to fully implement the provisions of the peace agreement and to do all they can to prevent such attacks.

The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the family of the victim and the Government and people of Chad.  He wishes a speedy and full recovery to the injured.