13 December 2024
I would like to thank the Special Representative, Abdou Abarry, and Ms. Nlate for their presentations.
Mr. President,
France welcomes the three-year renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa. It also welcomes the Security Council’s presidential statement which was approved on November 1st, a first since 2019. This statement reaffirmed the Council’s full support for the work carried out by the Office and the Special Representative in a context where the region continues to face major challenges.
The forced displacement of populations caused by the conflict in Sudan endures. The humanitarian and socio-economic consequences in the countries where these populations have taken refuge – Chad, Ethiopia, and the Central African Republic – are disastrous. The stability and security of countries in the region are furthermore affected by climate change. We have seen this with the floods in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The implementation of concrete solutions to these risks must continue to be one of the Bureau’s priorities.
Mr. President,
The Regional Office plays an important role in supporting transition processes that are underway in several countries in the region. These processes must continue, ensuring the full participation of all sectors of society, including young people and women. This is in the interests of both the people and the long-term stability of these countries.
The Special Representative’s good offices mission is essential in responding to the crises that persist in the region. This is the case in North-West and South-West Cameroon. France encourages the Special Representative to continue working with the Cameroonian authorities in order to find a solution that will enable all populations to live together in peace.
In Gabon, the transition is proceeding in an encouraging manner. The new Gabonese constitution has just been approved by referendum. Preparations for subsequent steps, notably elections, must continue. France endorses the efforts of the Regional Office in support of this process.
In the Central African Republic, the government’s efforts to implement the peace process are to be commended. The organization of local elections on July 13, 2025, the first since 1988, will be an essential step in the decentralization of this process. France has announced a contribution of 2 million euros in support of the organization of these elections, focusing in particular on the revision of the electoral roll which is currently underway. We encourage the authorities of the Central African Republic to create conditions which are conducive to free, transparent, and inclusive elections.
Mr. President,
France will continue to support the work of the Special Representative and the United Nations Office in accompanying the countries of the region.
Thank you very much.