Ban welcomes Mali's inclusive peace progress

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the recent progress towards the establishment of an inclusive peace in Mali.
In a statement released by his press office, Ban said that the initialing, on March 1st in Algiers, of a draft agreement on peace and reconciliation in Mali by the Government of Mali and the "Plateforme" coalition of armed groups, "is an important step forward." The UN Chief commended the parties for the progress achieved to date, and expressed his gratitude to Algeria and the members of the international mediation team for their dedicated efforts in support of the resolution of the conflict.
Furthermore, Ban noted that the political will and ownership of all Malian parties is essential for sustainable peace. Therefore, in this regard, he encouraged the "Coordination" coalition of armed groups to initial the draft agreement.
The Secretary General called on all parties to continue to engage to reach a final settlement, as the UN remains committed to support Malians in their search for peace, security, justice and development through the full and timely implementation of a future agreement.
On a similar note, Ban announced, Friday, the appointment of Major General Michael Lollesgaard of Denmark as the Force Commander of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). Lollesgaard succeeds Major General Jean Bosco Kazura of Rwanda, who completed his tour of duty mid-December 2014.