Dakar, 22 February 2025 - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, today concluded a two-day visit to Mali. The visit is part of UNOWAS' ongoing support for Mali's efforts to consolidate peace, security and development.

During his mission, the Special Representative was received in audience by H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Maiga, Prime Minister of the Republic of Mali, H.E. Mr. Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and General de Corps d'Armée Ismaël Wague, Minister of Reconciliation, Peace and National Cohesion. He also met with General Malick Diaw, President of the National Transition Council, as well as the diplomatic corps and the United Nations Country Team.

Mr. Simão praised Mali's efforts to tackle persistent security, humanitarian and economic challenges. The Special Representative encouraged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the countries of the Alliance of Sahel States to pursue dialogue in the interests of the people.

The Special Representative reaffirmed the continued commitment of the United Nations, in coordination with its partners, to accompany Mali in its quest for peace, stability and development.