Special Correspondent
NEW YORK: The forthcoming elections to be held in Central African Republic (CAR) are a unique opportunity to consolidate gains made towards strengthening stability in the African country.
This was stated by Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Munir Akram in a statement in the UN Security Council on the situation in CAR.
The statement hailed the government of Central African Republic for its positive developments in the implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.
He, however, expressed his concern on the clashes over transhumance corridors and the religious and ethnic overtones of clashes between armed groups in some areas (Haut-Mbomou and Mbomou Prefecture).
The ambassador warned that if unaddressed, these clashes may jeopardize social cohesion as well as security and stability. Pakistan called on the armed groups that have not laid down their arms to cease hostilities and return to the track of political dialogue.
He expressed Pakistan’s deep appreciation to MINUSCA for its efforts to promote peace in the Central African Republic. He said MINUSCA has demonstrated its ability to anticipate, innovate, and adapt in addressing the operational challenges.
“Pakistan is proud to have 1300 of its troops in MINUSCA,” he added.
Ambassador Munir Akram stressed the urgent need for the allocation of commensurate resources to MINUSCA, to enable it to implement its priority mandated tasks, including its multidimensional support for the elections, and the extension of judicial, administrative, and security authorities.
He said that now, more than ever, a strong and effective MINUSCA is needed to sustain peace and protect civilians in the CAR.
Ambassador Munir Akram said that the inauguration of the Bembéré multiservice border post on 17 January at the border between CAR and Chad represents a significant milestone in the Central African Republic’s efforts to strengthen border management, enhance security, and promote economic cooperation.
This achievement, he said, has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Government, MINUSCA, Chadian authorities, and development partners.
He also appreciated SRSG Valentine Rugwabiza’s leadership and her invaluable contribution in the consolidation of peace and stability in the CAR.
