Verklaring van Catharine Ashton over de situatie in Mali (en)

EUROPEAN UNION

Brussels, 7 April 2012 A

Statement by the Spokesperson of the EU High Representative, Catherine Ashton, following her call to Chairman of ECOWAS, President Ouattara, regarding the

situation in Mali

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

" The High Representative Catherine Ashton called President Ouattara of Cote d'lvoire this afternoon in his capacity as Chairman of ECOWAS, the West African regional organisation, to congratulate him on the agreement signed yesterday enabling a transition back to constitutional rule in Mali.

Catherine Ashton pledged the European Union's full support for the efforts of ECOWAS to resolve peacefully the political crisis in Mali. The EU had a vital interest in the security, stability and development of the whole Sahel region, particularly at a time of serious food shortage that was affecting millions of people there. The EU therefore welcomed and supported the strong lead taken by ECOWAS on the crisis, and particularly the clear message to the northern rebels that independence is not an option. A solution must be found by negotiation.

President Ouattara briefed the High Representative on the next steps in the transition process, which would get underway next week, and the preparations for a joint ECOWAS-AU'-UNforce to support the transitional government in Mali.

They agreed to remain in touch on the issue."