Bamako, 21 May 2024 - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, concluded today a five-day working visit to Mali.

This visit is part of the UNOWAS's continued engagement to better support the transitional authorities and the Malian people in their efforts to normalize national life and consolidate peace and stability.

During his visit, the Special Representative met with Colonel Malick Diaw, President of the National Transitional Council (CNT); Mr. Abdoulaye Diop, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as with representatives of the diplomatic corps and the United Nations country team.

Discussions with the transitional authorities focused on the security and socio-political situation in the country and in the sub-region, and on the need to strengthen cooperation between the United Nations and the Malian government to provide necessary aid to the Malian populations.

The Special Representative welcomed the readiness of the Malian authorities to work with the United Nations to help improve the living conditions of populations suffering from terrorist threat and insecurity. He urged the Malian authorities and all stakeholders to redouble their efforts to maintain an inclusive and constructive dialogue, in the interest of Mali and its people.

The Special Representative, Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, reaffirmed the commitment of UNOWAS and the United Nations system to supporting the Malian people in their quest for peace and prosperity.