The Secretary-General met today with H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, President of the Republic of Mali.

The Secretary-General expressed his sadness over the attack in Timbuktu today, which had led to the death and injury of many Malians.  He said it underlined the importance of restoring security in the north.

A durable solution would require security sector reform, improved governance throughout the country and the establishment of state authority in the north, he said.

The Secretary-General stressed the readiness of the United Nations and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) to help the Malian Government and people face these challenges.

He also expressed the United Nations’ support for inclusive peace talks and the organisation of legislative elections.

The Secretary-General also underlined the importance of the international community adopting a common regional approach to the Sahel.