In continuation of his visit to the G5 Sahel countries, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for West Africa and the Sahel, Mr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas arrived yesterday in N’Djamena, Chad, for a one-day visit.

During this third leg of his trip, Mohamed Ibn Chambas met with the Prime Minister, Mr. Albert Pahami Padacke. They discussed the security situation in the region and the need to strengthen coordination among countries of the region to tackle threats to peace and security, including those posed by Boko Haram group.

In this regard, Mr. Ibn Chambas commended Chadian authorities’ efforts to preserve peace and stability in the region. He called on the international community to redouble efforts to support the G5 Sahel countries in their fight against terrorism. "The fight against terrorism can be win only through international support and effective regional coordination," said Mr. Ibn Chambas.

Mr. Ibn Chambas also informed of the continued role and the support of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), the new entity established following the merger of the United Nations Office for West Africa (UNOWA) and Office of the Special Envoy of the United Nations for the Sahel (OSES).

"Our partnership with the G5 Sahel countries remains vital to accelerate the implementation of the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel (UNISS)", Mr. Ibn Chambas stressed.

For his part, Prime Minister M. Padacke expressed expectations of the Chadian government that UN support to the G5 Sahel countries must remain a priority in the search of solutions to peace and security challenges in the region. He also reiterated the commitment of his country to work with the UN and to continue its efforts to contribute to peace and stability in the region.

After Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad, Mohamed Ibn Chambas will travel today to Mali, to continue his working visit to the G5 Sahel countries.