October 23, 2024
Mr. President,
I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for her briefing, and recall France’s full support to her. I would also like to thank the Permanent Representative of Morocco, Chairman of the Central African Republic configuration of the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission. And I welcome the presence among us of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic.
France welcomes the efforts of the government of the Central African Republic to implement the peace process. The decentralization of this process must continue. The holding of the first local elections since 1988 should contribute to this. This is an important step towards enabling all Central Africans to participate in the country’s democratic life. France encourages the Central African authorities to create conditions conducive to the holding of free, transparent and inclusive elections. The full exercise of civil and political rights by all Central Africans, in particular women, youth and members of civil society, must be guaranteed. France plans to contribute 2 million euros to the UNDP fund to support the organization of these elections, if the conditions are met.
France welcomes the government’s efforts to address porous borders through the implementation of a national border management policy. The construction of the Bembéré post on the border with Chad bears witness to this commitment. The government’s approach to armed groups who have expressed their willingness to cease hostilities must be supported by the international community. All other armed groups must lay down their arms.
France welcomes the validation of the National Development Plan, which should enable the Central African Republic to make progress on sustainable development.
However, the security situation remains fragile in border areas, along transhumance corridors and around mining sites. Armed clashes persist, fuelled by competition for natural resources. Weapons and fighters continue to circulate between the Central African Republic and neighboring states. All of this poses a threat to the stability not only for the country, but for the region as a whole. The humanitarian situation, worsened by the repercussions of conflicts in neighboring countries, is worrying.
MINUSCA remains essential to address these challenges. It provides a decisive support to the Central African authorities in the fight against armed groups. It provides logistical support to the Central African armed forces, and backs the national disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation process. It plays a key role in supporting the extension of state authority throughout the country, which has been made a priority task in 2023.
MINUSCA must be in a position to pursue these efforts to promote peace and security in the country, working together with the Central African authorities. It must be able to do so effectively and with the necessary resources. The aim is to reinforce our presence in areas where the security and humanitarian situation is most fragile, in order to ensure the protection of civilians. In this regard, France reiterates its condemnation of human rights violations, which must cease. Respect for international humanitarian law applies to everyone. It is also key to give support the organization of elections and enabling the Special Representative to continue her mission of good offices, in order to advance the peace process.
In this regard, France will work with all the members of this Council and with the Central African Republic on the renewal of the Mission’s mandate in November.
Thank you.