United Nations S/PV.

9864
Security Council Provisional
Eightieth year

9864th meeting
Thursday, 20 February 2025, 10 a.m.
New York

President: Mr. Fu Cong. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (China)

Members: Algeria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Yahiaoui

Denmark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Lassen
France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. De Rivière
Greece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Sekeris
Guyana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Benn
Pakistan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Akram
Panama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Alfaro de Alba
Republic of Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Cho
Russian Federation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Evstigneeva
Sierra Leone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Karim
Slovenia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Jurečko
Somalia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Osman
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland . . . Mr. Kariuki
United States of America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Kelley

Agenda
The situation in the Central African Republic

This record contains the text of speeches delivered in English and of the translation of speeches
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S/PV.9864 The situation in the Central African Republic 20/02/2025

The meeting was called to order at 10.05 a.m.

Adoption of the agenda

The agenda was adopted.

The situation in the Central African Republic

The President (spoke in Chinese): In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s
provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of the Central African
Republic to participate in this meeting.
In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I
invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza,
Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations
Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic;
and Ms. Portia Deya Abazene, President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs
of the Central African Republic.
The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda.
I give the floor to Ms. Rugwabiza.
Ms. Rugwabiza: I would like to congratulate China on assuming the presidency
of the Security Council for the month of February. I also take this opportunity to
express my gratitude to the Council for the unwavering support expressed to the
United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central
African Republic (MINUSCA) through the unanimous vote on the mandate renewal
(see S/PV.9783).
Today I have the honour to present the most recent report of the Secretary-
General and to provide an update on recent political and security developments, as
well as MINUSCA efforts in implementing its mandate.
Nine days ago, a long-range patrol of the Tunisian contingent was ambushed
near Zobassinda, approximately 50 km north-east of Ndélé, in Bamingui-Bangoran
prefecture while on a protection of civilian mission. Armed elements opened fire
on the patrol, resulting in the tragic loss of Seifeddine Hamrita, a peacekeeper of
29 years old. I strongly condemn this attack and extend my deepest condolences
to the family and to the Government of Tunisia. I reiterate my call to the Central
African authorities to spare no efforts to investigate and bring the perpetrators of
this horrendous attack to justice. This incident is a stark reminder of the sacrifices
made by those on the frontlines of peacekeeping, and I wish to pay tribute to troop-
and police-contributing countries for their unwavering support for peace in the
Central African Republic.
In 2025, the Central African Republic will be organizing local, legislative
and presidential elections. The upcoming electoral cycle represents a significant
opportunity to consolidate the progress achieved in the extension of State authority,
and to lay the foundation for decentralized governance. Therefore, the organization
of safe, transparent and inclusive elections will contribute towards addressing roots
causes of recurring conflict in the Central African Republic.
I am pleased to report that progress has been made in the implementation of the
electoral process. This momentum has been driven by sustained national commitment
and enhanced collaboration with MINUSCA, the United Nations Country Team and
other partners to advance the revision of the voter list as a cornerstone for inclusive
and credible local, legislative and presidential elections.
The first phase of the voters list revision was successfully carried out in 11 of the
20 prefectures in the Central African Republic, from 24 November to 20 December

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2024. During this period, MINUSCA intensified its multifaceted support to national
authorities, in synergy with the United Nations Country Team. As a result, 98 per
cent of registration centres were operational, allowing for 570,000 new voters to be
registered. I also welcome the commitment made by the National Electoral Authority
to reopen, during the second phase, the handful of voter registration centres that
were not operational owing to security challenges.
On 18 December 2024, the inaugural meeting of the national committee on the
securing of the elections was convened and chaired by the Prime Minister, further
demonstrating national commitment to fostering a conducive environment for the
conduct of elections. In addition, continuous efforts are under way to encourage
the registration of all eligible citizens, with particular attention to women, youth
and internally displaced persons, as well as returnees and refugees. That is done
through coordination with the Government, the United Nations country team and
civil society. I call on the Government and its partners to provide resources in a
timely fashion so as to not jeopardize the implementation of the revised electoral list
and calendar.
The persistent pockets of insecurity, particularly in areas where armed groups
engage in predatory operations to control mining sites and transhumance corridors,
remain a real concern. While the overall security situation has improved across
the Central African Republic, it remains fragile in border areas, where MINUSCA
continues to work closely with the Government to strengthen and extend the effective
presence of authority. The Prime Minister’s inauguration on 17 January of the first-
ever multiservice border post in the Central African Republic, built and equipped
by MINUSCA in the locality of Bembéré on the border with Chad, represents a
significant milestone. In that connection, the implementation of the Central African
Republic’s national border management policy requires additional support, including
by replicating that initiative as a model, with a view to facilitating border control and
addressing cross-border threats, especially in the north-east, where the spillover of
the conflict in the Sudan is the most prominent threat. On that note, I welcome the
positive steps taken by the Government of the Central African Republic to enhance
its security cooperation with neighbouring countries.
This month we mark the sixth anniversary of the signing of the Political Agreement
for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. In that context, I am
particularly encouraged by the progress achieved so far, including the dissolution of
nine of 14 signatory armed groups and a notable extension of the State’s presence and
authority in areas formerly occupied by armed groups. I also note the strengthening
of the decentralization of the Political Agreement, which is proving effective
in promoting local mediation and social cohesion. However, notwithstanding the
ongoing efforts by the Government and international non-governmental organizations
to continue engaging with the still-active armed groups that have left the Agreement,
I should note that we have yet to see results. There is an urgent need for increased
political mobilization, in particular from the guarantors of the Political Agreement,
specifically the African Union and the Economic Community of Central African
States, to facilitate the return of those armed groups and the subsequent long-term
disarming and demobilizing of all combatants.
Furthermore, much progress remains to be made in the fight against impunity
and in the promotion of transitional justice as a key component of the Political
Agreement. I call on the Government of the Central African Republic to accelerate the
operationalization of the Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation Commission
through the effective appointment of its new commissioners. I also want to take
this opportunity to stress the urgent need for the Special Criminal Court to secure
sustainable financial support so that it can adequately perform its functions and
thereby deliver justice for victims, which is crucial to effective national reconciliation.

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Security sector reform remains central to ensuring that the national defence
forces are equipped to fulfil their primary responsibility of protecting the Central
African Republic’s population and territorial integrity. The validation of key security
governance frameworks during the previous reporting period was a significant step
forward but now requires sustained investment in building the institutional capacity
of the security sector, including through the training and professionalization of the
national defence forces. On 7 February, the Minister of Justice, the Inspector General
of the national army and I inaugurated the Bouar military tribunal, showcasing the
commitment of the Government of the Central African Republic to the establishment
of a military justice system and the promotion of accountability among the national
defence forces. However, the recruitment of elements from former self-defence
groups into the national defence forces, outside the regulatory framework and with
limited oversight, risks undermining the progress made in security sector reform.
Without clear accountability, oversight mechanisms and command and control over
such recruits, the extension of State authority could be constrained.
The human rights situation remains an issue of particular concern, with persistent
grave violations. Left unaddressed, those crimes could undermine hard-earned
security gains and further erode social cohesion. I therefore urge the Government to
continue taking decisive action to address those violations, ensuring accountability
for all perpetrators. I welcomed the National Assembly’s unanimous enactment on
27 December 2024 of a landmark law on the promotion and protection of human
rights defenders. I commend that significant milestone, which illustrates the Central
African Republic’s commitment to human rights issues, in line with the national
human rights policy and its five-year action plan.
As we look ahead, the allocation of timely and adequate resources to the Mission
remains essential to consolidating security and stability in the Central African
Republic. That will also require the continued engagement of development actors
in support of national development priorities so as to translate security gains into
concrete improvements in the lives of the people of the Central African Republic.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all partners who continue to support
peace operations, as well as the countries that are contributing troops and police
to MINUSCA and the Mission’s civilian staff for their unwavering dedication and
commitment to building a legacy for peace in the Central African Republic.
The President (spoke in Chinese): I thank Ms. Rugwabiza for her briefing.
I now give the floor to Ms. Deya Abazene.
Ms. Deya Abazene (spoke in French): I greet everyone with respect and gratitude
for the opportunity afforded to me to address the Council today. In my capacity as
President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs of the Central African Republic,
I am here today to speak to the Council about a subject that is close to my heart and
that lies at the heart of the future of my country, the Central African Republic — the
involvement of women in the development of our country’s economy.
Despite our adoption of international conventions and a Constitution that
guarantees equal rights, harmful practices continue to hold women back in the
Central African Republic. The Central African Republic has been in the grip of a
political and military crisis since 2012 and is facing major economic challenges, with
a rising poverty rate and weak representation of women in leadership positions. It
will be crucial to undertake a study of women’s contribution to the economy, as they
represent just 15.5 per cent of business owners in some sectors and are contending
with numerous barriers, such as access to secure land tenure, the means of production
and extension services, as well as to education and training, financing, markets and
decent employment.

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The existence of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs is a crucial asset in

developing female entrepreneurship in the Central African Republic. It provides
a forum for women entrepreneurs at the local level to exchange and share their
experiences and also brings together women from the subregion and beyond.
The Federation of Women Entrepreneurs of the Central African Republic
was created in 2023 by women entrepreneurs in the Central African Republic. Its
primary goal is to bring together all women’s entrepreneurial synergies within a
single organization in order to pool our efforts, speak with one voice and be a driving
force for proposals and solutions for a fairer, more inclusive economy.
In the two years of our existence, we have raised the level of women’s
entrepreneurship in the Central African Republic through the following achievements.
Through networking development, 102 women entrepreneurs who are members
of the Federation have participated in international conferences and exhibitions on
entrepreneurship in several countries.
The National Fair of Women’s Entrepreneurship, held from 4 to 9 March 2024
in Bangui, brought together more than 2,500 women entrepreneurs from the 20
prefectures of the Central African Republic and the diaspora. Three clusters were
set up: a support-advisory service, trade and industry development and a focus on
food security.
In terms of training, more than 2,700 women have received practical
training in leadership, management, financial education, digital marketing and
project management.
The first national bootcamp for women agricultural workers, held from 25 April
to 1 May 2024, improved the skills of 200 rural women farmers and ranchers,
focusing on value-chain management.
In terms of access to markets, seven agricultural fairs were held, generating
6,000 tons of products sold and 25 million CFA francs in sales. More than 1 million
people were made aware of the need to buy local products.
Finally, during the national fair, 150 stands were set up, attracting more than
1,000 exhibitors and 1 million visitors, generating sales of 45 million CFA francs.
The entrepreneurial achievements of Central African women are the result of
their determination and the political will to support them. However, much remains to
be done. We need more support, resources and recognition for women entrepreneurs,
as well as policies and programmes that encourage women’s entrepreneurship and
facilitate access to finance.
Promoting equal economic opportunities between men and women is an issue of
social justice and is crucial to the sustainability and profitability of businesses. The
Central African Republic will not be able to realize its potential as long as more than
51 per cent of its population — that is, women — continue to be marginalized. The
main challenge is to help women and young people to become genuine entrepreneurs,
which is essential for economic growth and a stable job market.
I am therefore appealing for support for women’s entrepreneurship initiatives in
the Central African Republic. We need the Security Council’s support to continue
advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in our country. We need the
Council’s support to help women overcome the obstacles they face and realize their
full potential. We need the Council’s support to build a stronger and more inclusive
economy in the Central African Republic. Together we can make a difference.
Together we can build a better future for all women in the Central African Republic.
The President (spoke in Chinese): I thank Ms. Deya Abazene for her briefing.

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I shall now give the floor to those Council members who wish to make statements.
Mr. De Rivière (France) (spoke in French): I would like to thank the Special
Representative of the Secretary-General for her statement and reiterate France’s full
support for her work. I would also like to thank Ms. Portia Deya Abazene for her
statement and welcome the presence among us of the Permanent Representative of
the Central African Republic.
France welcomes the Central African Government’s ongoing commitment
to organizing the local and general elections scheduled for 2025. The holding of
local elections is a key stage in the decentralization of the peace process and the
strengthening of democracy. It is essential to create favourable conditions for
holding free, transparent and inclusive elections, particularly for women, young
people and members of civil society. The revision of the electoral register should
enable all Central Africans to exercise their civil and political rights. To support
that effort, France has allocated a contribution of €2 million to the United Nations
Development Programme fund dedicated to the elections. That is part of an overall
budgetary aid package of €10 million disbursed last December. France is calling on its
international partners to provide financial and material support for the organization
of the elections.
On the security front, despite an improvement in recent years, the situation
remains fragile. The attack against the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated
Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) on 11 February in
the north-east of the country, which led to the death of a peacekeeper, bears witness
to that. France strongly condemns that attack and pays tribute to the memory of
that soldier. Armed clashes continue, fuelled by competition for natural resources.
Weapons and fighters continue to circulate in the border areas between the Central
African Republic and neighbouring States, which benefits the armed groups. The
incursions into Central African territory by the Rapid Support Forces from the
Sudan are very worrisome. The conflicts in neighbouring countries are exacerbating
an already dire humanitarian situation. Attacks on civilians have led to further
displacements, and the scourge of sexual and gender-based violence persists.
France welcomes the Central African Government’s commitment to managing
its border. Those efforts must be accompanied by an extension of State authority.
France reiterates its full support for disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and
repatriation efforts and for efforts to reduce violence. It calls for the protection of
civilians and respect for international humanitarian law and human rights.
Peacebuilding in the Central African Republic depends on continued progress
in the fight against impunity. The Special Criminal Court plays a crucial role in that
respect. The €200,000 contribution made by France in December 2024 will enable
the Court to continue its work. France calls on all partners to provide support to
the Court.
MINUSCA plays an essential role in all areas. France welcomes the unanimous
renewal of its mandate last November (see S/PV.9783). That is a strong signal of
support from the members of the Council. France joins the Secretary-General
in calling for MINUSCA to be given the resources it needs to fully implement
its mandate.
Mr. Alfaro de Alba (Panama) (spoke in Spanish): We appreciate the convening
of this briefing on the situation in the Central African Republic and the statement by
the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations
Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic
(MINUSCA), Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza. We also welcome Ms. Portia Deya Abazene
and thank her for her participation.

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At the outset, we would like to express our sincerest condolences to the family
of the Tunisian peacekeeper who lost his life on 11 February. That heinous act,
perpetrated against individuals who devote their lives to protecting civilians and
strengthening peace in the Central African Republic, is unacceptable and must be
unequivocally condemned.
The year 2025 is a crucial year for the Central African Republic. The holding
of local elections, scheduled for July, represents a significant step forward in
strengthening democracy and governance at the community level and is a central
component of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central
African Republic. These will be the first local elections in more than three decades.
It is therefore critical that this process be transparent, inclusive, representative of the
country’s diversity and duly financed.
It is important to recognize the efforts and preparations for the elections,
including voter registration, despite the financial and logistical challenges that must
be overcome to ensure the integrity and fairness of the process. We express our
concern about reports of shrinking civic and political space, as well as demands for
institutional reforms. In that regard, we urge the Government of the Central African
Republic, the Independent Electoral Commission and all stakeholders to ensure
that these elections take place in a peaceful environment, with the participation
of all sectors of society, especially women, youth and traditionally marginalized
communities, recognizing their key role in promoting peace and social cohesion in
the Central African Republic — despite the obstacles they face in politics, access to
resources and protection. We urge the international community to strengthen their
inclusion in decision-making and ensure their safety.
The international community must continue to support this effort through
technical assistance, electoral observation and financial support, thus ensuring the
transparency and legitimacy of the electoral process. This democratic exercise will
not only consolidate governance in the Central African Republic, but will also lay
the foundations for lasting peace and sustainable development.
In that context, our country expresses its support to MINUSCA, whose work
has been crucial in the protection of the civilian population, the strengthening
of the political process and the implementation of the 2019 peace agreement.
It is essential that the international community continue to support the Mission,
guaranteeing the necessary resources and mandate so that it can carry out its work
with maximum effectiveness.
We cannot allow the crisis in the Central African Republic to take a back seat to
other global emergencies. The humanitarian situation remains alarming. According to
recent data, nearly 3 million people are in need of urgent assistance. The conflict has
led to the forced displacement of 1.4 million people, of whom approximately 664,000
have sought refuge in neighbouring countries, while more than 465,000 remain
displaced within the national territory. In the same vein, we urge the international
community to redouble its financial support to the humanitarian response plan,
which still faces a funding shortfall, and to bolster support to humanitarian agencies
operating on the ground.
The Council has reaffirmed the link between climate change, peace and security.
In the Central African Republic, drought and deforestation have limited access to
water and arable land, aggravating the humanitarian crisis and generating tensions
between farmers and pastoralists, leading to instability and violence. Environmental
damage has facilitated the recruitment of young people by armed groups, perpetuating
the cycle of violence and insecurity. Integrating environmental mitigation into
peacebuilding initiatives is key to reducing risks and strengthening stability.

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Panama advocates a cross-cutting approach that combines sustainable

development, climate resilience and vulnerability reduction in order to achieve real
peace. We urge all parties to reject violence and commit to dialogue as the only
path to lasting peace. Only through close cooperation between the Government,
civil society, regional actors and the international community can we contribute to a
sustainable solution for the people of the Central African Republic.
Ms. Lassen (Denmark): I thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for her
comprehensive and informative briefing. I also wish to thank Ms. Deya Abazene,
President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs of the Central African Republic
for her work and for her words to the Council this morning. I welcome the participation
of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting.
Like others, Denmark condemns, in the strongest terms, the 11 February attack
that resulted in the death of one peacekeeper. We express our heartfelt condolences
to the family, Government and people of Tunisia. The attack underscores the dangers
faced by United Nations personnel.
I will make three points.
First, I would like to touch upon elections, accountability and reconciliation.
Free, fair and peaceful elections are fundamental to the continued peace process
in the Central African Republic. Denmark welcomes the efforts of United Nations
Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic
(MINUSCA) to support voter registration ahead of the upcoming local elections. The
successful registration process in Bangui provides a strong foundation for expanding
access beyond the capital. Ensuring the meaningful participation of women, young
people and marginalized communities remains essential. We underscore the urgent
need to extend voter registration efforts beyond Bangui in a timely manner.
Denmark also commends the ongoing peace and reconciliation initiatives. The
decentralization of the peace process to local communities is producing tangible
results, such as fostering greater inclusion. These local engagement initiatives are
making a difference by reducing conflict and strengthening community resilience.
Secondly, on the security and humanitarian situation, Denmark remains deeply
concerned about the impact of violence and regional instability on the people of
the Central African Republic. Rising insecurity along the north-eastern border and
escalating violence in border areas in the south-east and north-west, threaten hard-
won progress. They also worsen existing humanitarian challenges.
In that regard, we commend the work of the host State and welcome the recent
agreement between the Governments of the Central African Republic and Chad
to establish joint border security posts. We acknowledge MINUSCA’s vital role in
facilitating this initiative, which is a step towards greater regional stability.
Despite this progress, the humanitarian situation remains dire. High levels of
food insecurity persist, compounded by climate-related disasters, including flooding.
Restricted access to basic services exposes women and girls to a high risk of gender-
based violence, including rape and early and forced marriage.
We commend MINUSCA’s continued efforts to support the Government,
United Nations agencies and humanitarian partners in responding to these urgent
needs. We also positively note the recent adoption of national legislation on the
protection of human rights defenders — an important step forward in safeguarding
fundamental freedoms.
Thirdly, on operational challenges, Denmark recognizes MINUSCA’s support
to initiatives such as rebuilding critical links, including roads and bridges.
These are paramount to boosting the Mission’s ability to implement its mandate.

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However, persistent logistical challenges remain. Road accessibility continues to

hinder mobility, and disruptions in fuel supply are jeopardizing MINUSCA’s and
humanitarian actors’ ability to sustain operations. Addressing those constraints is
imperative. Fuel shortages not only impact the Mission’s ability to deliver on its
mandate, but they also undermine ongoing infrastructure projects that are essential
for stability and development.
MINUSCA has demonstrated its ability to work systematically and constructively
with the Government of the Central African Republic to implement its mandate.
Denmark commends MINUSCA’s critical role as a stabilizing force in the country
and the region. As we look ahead, the international community must ensure that
the Mission continues to receive the support and resources necessary to sustain its
progress and maintain peace and security in the Central African Republic.
Mr. Kelley (United States of America): I would like to start by offering our
condolences and deepest sympathies for the Tunisian peacekeeper who was fatally
wounded in the 11 February attack on a United Nations Multidimensional Integrated
Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) patrol. The
United States condemns all attacks against peacekeepers and thanks Tunisia for its
contributions to MINUSCA.
I thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for her informative briefing,
illustrating MINUSCA’s vital role in supporting peace and security in the Central
African Republic. I would also like to thank her and her Mission’s leadership,
MINUSCA staff and troop- and police-contributing countries for their commitment
to promoting peace in the Central African Republic and helping to establish the
conditions that the country needs to enable it to break from past cycles of violence.
We commend MINUSCA’s recent work with the National Elections Authority
to support voter registration and prepare for local elections, and we look forward to
the Mission’s support for the second phase of voter registration in March. We were
also pleased that a joint border post, built and equipped by MINUSCA, was opened
on the border between the Central African Republic and Chad in January. That is a
step towards the expansion of State authority over the entire territory of the Central
African Republic and along its borders. We commend the strengthened cooperation
between the authorities of the Central African Republic and Chad.
The United States is committed to the Central African Republic’s sovereignty
and independence. MINUSCA is key to promoting those goals and remains the least
costly way to achieve them. By promoting security and stability and working with
the Central African Republic’s Government to expand State authority, MINUSCA
is playing a vital role in creating conditions conducive to peace and economic
development. Partnerships among MINUSCA, the Government and the local
population are essential to achieving the Mission’s priority tasks. Respect for human
rights is also crucial to sustainable peace and prosperity, and MINUSCA continues
to play an invaluable role in reporting on human rights protection challenges and
progress in the country.
Regrettably, not everyone shares those goals. It is clear that Kremlin-backed
actors, purporting to be security partners, are undercutting the Central African
Republic’s authority and undermining peace, with the primary goal of stealing
the Central African Republic’s resources without contributing to its development.
Through the insidious propaganda spread by those actors, they are also undermining
the stability of the Central African Republic and the self-determination of its
people. I will say what we have said before. It is unacceptable that a member of the
Council is continuing to disseminate information that is diminishing MINUSCA’s
credibility and effectiveness. Such manipulation harms the civic space and impedes
democratic development.

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For MINUSCA and the Central African Republic to be successful, it is

imperative that the status-of-forces agreement be upheld and that alleged violations
of the agreement be reported to the Council. I thank the Special Representative
of the Secretary-General for her reporting on compliance with the agreement and
express our serious concern about a reported violation, the blocking of MINUSCA
fuel trucks. That must stop. In addition, MINUSCA will be successful only when the
United Nations zero-tolerance policy is fully implemented. We are deeply concerned
about the allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse outlined in the most recent
report of the Secretary-General, and there must be accountability for those actions.
In conclusion, the United States calls on all armed actors to lay down their
weapons and join the process for peace, and we urge the Government and the political
opposition to engage in open dialogue to reduce tensions in the run-up to the historic
local elections in July.
Mr. Akram (Pakistan): We thank you, Mr. President, for convening this
morning’s briefing. We express our gratitude to Ambassador Valentine Rugwabiza,
Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations
Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic
(MINUSCA), for her important briefing. We also thank Ms. Portia Deya Abazene
for her contribution on the human dimensions of the situation. And we welcome the
participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in our
proceedings today.
We condemn the attack on 11 February that killed a MINUSCA peacekeeper
and offer our condolences to his family and to the Government and the people of
Tunisia. The perpetrators must be brought to justice. We would like to make the
following points.
First, Pakistan conveys its deep appreciation to MINUSCA for its efforts to
promote peace in the Central African Republic. MINUSCA has demonstrated its
ability to anticipate, innovate and adapt in addressing the operational challenges.
Pakistan is proud to have 1,300 of its troops in MINUSCA.
Secondly, as of 4 February, unpaid assessed contributions to the special
account for MINUSCA amounted to $570.7 million. There is an urgent need for
allocating resources to MINUSCA commensurate with its implementation of its
priority mandated tasks, including its multidimensional support for elections and
the extension of judicial, administrative and security support to the authorities. A
strong and effective MINUSCA is now needed more than ever to sustain peace in the
Central African Republic.
Thirdly, the elections in 2025 and 2026 represent a unique opportunity to
consolidate the gains made towards strengthening stability in the Central African
Republic, and we welcome the Government’s continued efforts to prepare for them.
Fourthly, we commend the Government on the continued positive developments
in the implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in
the Central African Republic. Despite that progress, clashes over transhumance
corridors and the religious and ethnic overtones of clashes between armed groups
in some areas are concerning. If unaddressed, they may jeopardize social cohesion,
security and stability. We call on the armed groups that have not laid down their
arms to cease hostilities and return to the path of political dialogue.
Fifthly, the inauguration on 17 January of the Bembéré multiservice border post
on the border between the Central African Republic and Chad represents a significant
milestone in the Central African Republic’s efforts to strengthen border management,
enhance security and promote economic cooperation. That achievement has been

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made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Government, MINUSCA, the
Chadian authorities and development partners.
Lastly, I would like to say that we highly appreciate Special Representative
Rugwabiza’s leadership and her invaluable contribution to the consolidation of peace
and stability in the Central African Republic.
Ms. Jurečko (Slovenia): I want to thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for
her detailed briefing. We also welcome the statement of Ms. Deya Abazene. And I
would like to welcome the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic
to this meeting.
We condemn in the strongest terms the recent attack on the United Nations
Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic
(MINUSCA) patrol. Slovenia expresses its deep condolences to the family of the
peacekeeper who was killed in that heinous attack, as well as to the Government and
the people of Tunisia and to the United Nations.
Despite notable progress in several areas, the Central African Republic continues
to face serious challenges. In that regard, I would like to make three points.
First, we reiterate our call to all armed groups to renounce violence and
immediately rejoin the peace process. We welcome the continuous commitment by
the Central African Republic Government to implement the 2019 Political Agreement
for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic and the Luanda road
map, especially the efforts to improve border management and ensure peaceful
transhumance. The participation of civil society, women and youth in those activities
should be continued.
Secondly, local elections can signify a major step in the further decentralization
of the country, but only if conducted in a peaceful, inclusive and transparent manner.
We are encouraged by the political and financial commitment of the Central African
Republic Government towards voter registration and other electoral processes.
However, elections will be considered credible and democratic only if all eligible
voters are able to register and cast their vote, including women, youth, minorities,
internally displaced persons, returnees and refugees. We also encourage the Central
African Republic Government to enable open political and civil space and to continue
the dialogue among all political actors. Furthermore, the attacks on voter registration
agents must stop. The Government and MINUSCA should do their utmost to ensure
their safety. We take note of the funding shortfall in regard of the proposed budget for
the local elections. The European Union, of which Slovenia is a member, has already
contributed $2.2 million to the United Nations basket fund. We support the appeal of
the Secretary-General to the international community to provide additional financial
and material resources for the timely and orderly holding of elections.
Thirdly, we would like to express our support to MINUSCA’s effort to improve
the efficiency of the Mission in line with its five-year political strategy, including
by optimizing logistical support and supply chains. Building on the objectives of the
United Nations environment strategy for peace operations 2023-2030 to increase
efficient use of resources, Slovenia, together with Bangladesh, Germany, Italy and the
Republic of Korea, organized an event on the environmental impact of United Nations
peace operations. We have heard that by increasing the share of renewable energy,
MINUSCA not only decreased its environmental footprint, but also improved its
operability and effectiveness, minimizing exposure and threats to its peacekeepers.
That has enabled the Mission to carry out its mandate more effectively. That calls for
our continued support to all environmental management initiatives by MINUSCA,
and we encourage the Mission to continue with its ongoing efforts.

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Finally, reported allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by MINUSCA

staff are extremely alarming. We urge MINUSCA and relevant troop-contributing
countries to promptly investigate them, take all appropriate measures and continue
to provide assistance to the victims.
The unanimous decision by the Council to renew the mandate of MINUSCA
confirmed the crucial role that the Mission plays in the peace and stabilization
process of the Central African Republic. That political commitment should also be
accompanied by sufficient resources, so that MINUSCA will be able to perform its
mandate to its full extent.
Mr. Kariuki (United Kingdom): I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-
General Rugwabiza and [Link] for their briefings today. And I welcome the
participation of the representative of the Central African Republic in our meeting.
Like others, I extend my condolences to the fallen Tunisian peacekeeper’s
family and express our gratitude for the personal sacrifices that peacekeepers
and their families make in support of peace. We condemn all attacks on United
Nations peacekeepers.
I will make three points today.
First, the United Kingdom welcomes the work by the Government of the Central
African Republic, in coordination with the United Nations Multidimensional
Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA),
to advance voter registration for elections. The elections should be an important
milestone in expanding the political participation of all individuals in the Central
African Republic. However, the United Kingdom has information that proxies
directed by the Russian State have plans to interfere with the Central African
Republic elections, including through suppressing political voices and conducting
disinformation campaigns to interfere in political debate. Those actions demonstrate
that Russian proxies act without regard for the Central African Republic’s sovereignty
in order to secure continued support for their destabilizing objectives. Furthermore,
they jeopardize the dedicated United Nations role, mandated by the Council, to help
support inclusive, free and fair elections in 2025 and 2026.
Secondly, the United Kingdom also welcomes progress by the Government of
the Central African Republic to improve its security and accountability capacity.
That includes delivering the first disciplinary sanctions against magistrates since
2013. However, as the report of the Secretary-General highlights, the Central African
Republic faces many security challenges. Attacks by the Sudanese Rapid Support
Forces in the Central African Republic threaten progress made in implementing
the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African
Republic. The United Kingdom calls on all actors to respect the Central African
Republic’s territorial integrity. We also encourage the Government of the Central
African Republic to enhance border management with the Sudan to support refugees
and prevent their exploitation by armed elements.
Thirdly, we remain concerned about the human rights situation in the country.
The United Kingdom condemns reports of Wagner Ti Azande and other armed groups
committing atrocities against civilians, including conflict-related sexual violence.
Grave violations against children are also increasing. We urge the Government of
the Central African Republic to enhance its efforts to identify recruited children
and secure their handover to child protection actors. We also call on all actors to
the conflict to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human
rights law.
In conclusion, the coming year will be important for supporting peace and
security in the Central African Republic, including through elections. The United

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Kingdom remains committed to supporting MINUSCA and the Government of the

Central African Republic to embed genuine long-term security while preserving the
Central African Republic’s sovereignty.
Mr. Osman (Somalia): I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of
Guyana and the three African members of the Security Council, namely, Algeria,
Sierra Leone and my own country, Somalia (A3+).
We thank Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the Secretary-
General and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization
Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), and Ms. Portia Deya Abazene,
President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs of the Central African Republic,
for their informative briefings to the Council on the situation in the Central African
Republic. We also acknowledge the presence of the Permanent Representative of
the Central African Republic in this meeting. We extend our gratitude to the United
Nations personnel serving in the Central African Republic, as well as the troop-
contributing countries, for their unwavering dedication to peace and stability in the
Central African Republic.
The A3+ strongly condemns the killing of a Tunisian peacekeeper of the United
Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African
Republic, on 11 February, near the village of Zobassinda, while the peacekeeper
was conducting a patrol to protect civilians. We express our deepest condolences
to the family of the peacekeeper, the people and the Government of Tunisia, as well
as MINUSCA. We reiterate that attacks against United Nations peacekeepers in the
Central African Republic are a violation of international humanitarian law, and we
urge all parties to the conflict to ensure their protection.
The A3+ is concerned about the multidimensional challenges facing the Central
African Republic. We wish to make three points in that regard.
First, we commend the Government’s continued efforts to implement the Political
Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. We are
encouraged by the positive developments on deepening decentralization, national
cohesion and peaceful transhumance activities.
Noting the progress made in implementing the disarmament, demobilization,
rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) programme with the support of MINUSCA,
we urge the Government to ensure that DDRR operations are conducted within the
national programme and in the context of a comprehensive economic empowerment
and development agenda. In that regard, we further urge the armed groups that have
not done so, to cease hostilities and participate in the political dialogue and the
peace initiatives.
Despite security, logistical and financial challenges, preparations for local,
legislative and presidential elections are progressing and must be supported. We
emphasize the need for an open and constructive dialogue between the Government
and opposition parties in order to create conditions conducive to peaceful, inclusive
and transparent elections.
The A3+ calls for concerted efforts to ensure that all eligible citizens are registered
during the first and second phases of voter registration, with particular attention to
women, youth, minorities and internally displaced persons and returnees. That will
further strengthen the Central African Republic-owned and -led political process. In
that regard, we urge MINUSCA and other development partners to prioritize electoral
support, including through financial contributions to the basket fund managed by
the United Nations Development Programme, strengthening confidence-building
measures and promoting inclusiveness so that the outcomes of the election will be
credible and reflect the will of the people of the Central African Republic.

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We encourage the Government of the Central African Republic to consider

restructuring the National Electoral Authority and the Constitutional Council in
order to increase the inclusivity of the upcoming elections. We wish to underline
that the success of the local election process is essential for the strengthening of
direct democracy, legitimacy, local development and the extension of State authority
throughout the national territory.
Secondly, on the security front, despite some gains achieved in various parts of
the country, the A3+ remains concerned about instability in areas in the north-west
and the east, with armed confrontations concentrated around mining sites and along
transhumance corridors, exacerbating internal displacement and the humanitarian
crisis. We note that the conflict in the Sudan continues to have implications for
peace and stability in the Central African Republic. We call for reinforced efforts
to provide humanitarian assistance to refugees and displaced persons, while also
enhancing border security to prevent spillover violence.
Given the importance of strengthening the porous borders and internal security,
we welcome the inauguration of the Bembéré multiservice border post, the first
multiservice border post in the Central African Republic, built with the support of
MINUSCA. The inauguration of this border post, coupled with the reactivation of
the bilateral joint commission with Chad, will contribute to enhancing security and
economic cooperation across the Great Lakes region. We call for enhanced border
security measures in order to curb the movement of armed groups and illicit arms
trafficking, which continue to destabilize parts of the Central African Republic. That
can only be done through the full implementation of the border management policies.
Thirdly, the A3+ notes with concern that human rights violations and abuses
increased during the reporting period. We continue to strongly condemn the
persistent violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses
of human rights, particularly conflict-related sexual violence and violations against
children. We call for the protection of civilians and for accountability measures to
address the human rights violations and abuses, bearing in mind the threat they pose
to social cohesion and stability. The A3+ commends the Government of the Central
African Republic for signing the handover protocol on the protection and transfer of
children associated with armed groups and forces with the United Nations and urge
that further measures be taken to protect conflict-affected children and end their
recruitment and use by armed forces and armed groups.
Impunity perpetuates the cycle of gender-based sexual violence in the Central
African Republic and undermines efforts to protect peace and development. We call
for an enhanced role for the strategic committee on the fight against gender-based
violence through the implementation of the revised national action plan on sexual
violence in conflict. Community-based initiatives to address human rights violations
and help survivors of gender-based violence must be fully supported.
We remain deeply concerned about the dire humanitarian situation. With
more than 3 million people facing food insecurity and increasing numbers of
internally displaced persons and refugees, compounded by climate change-related
flooding, the humanitarian crisis in the Central African Republic is deteriorating.
Humanitarian responses by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs,
the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and other institutions must be
well-coordinated to maximize complementarities, including national structures and
systems. We urge international partners to increase financial support to address the
shortfalls in the humanitarian response plan and ensure that it meets the humanitarian
needs in the Central African Republic.
Before concluding, the A3+ would like to welcome the lifting, in November, of the
restrictions on diamond exports, imposed by the Kimberley Process since 2013. This

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will enhance the Government’s implementation of the National Development Plan

for 2024–2028 and improve the economic situation of the Central African Republic.
We reiterate our strong support for the efforts of the Special Representative of
the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic and MINUSCA in assisting
the Government and the people of the Central African Republic to bring lasting
peace and stability, as mandated by resolution 2759 (2024). We note the initiative
of MINUSCA to enhance opportunities for local economic development through
seminars and other initiatives in various locations in the Central African Republic.
The seminars have been instrumental in educating potential vendors about United
Nations procurement requirements in order to enhance local participation in the
Mission’s procurement activities, in compliance with the United Nations financial
regulations and rules.
In conclusion, the A3+ remains firmly committed to the independence, territorial
integrity and sovereignty of the Central African Republic. We reiterate our call for
all armed groups, including foreign actors, to cease their destructive actions in
the country and allow the implementation of a comprehensive peace process. The
Government of the Central African Republic must be able to positively harness
and judiciously manage its natural resources if it is to attain peace and sustainable
development for its people. We underscore the importance of respecting the
sanctions regime against the armed groups, as part of efforts to address the conflict
in the country and to fully implement the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and
Reconciliation, whose sixth anniversary was celebrated earlier this year.
Mr. Cho (Republic of Korea): I thank Special Representative Rugwabiza and
Ms. Deya Abazene for their informative briefings. I also welcome the Representative
of the Central African Republic to today’s meeting.
Before I begin, the Republic of Korea strongly condemns the attack that claimed
the life of a peacekeeper last week. We extend our deepest condolences to the family
of the bereaved and to Tunisia. We reiterate that attacks against peacekeepers
may constitute war crimes and call for a thorough investigation in order to ensure
accountability. We also reaffirm our unwavering support for Special Representative
Rugwabiza and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization
Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).
I wish to highlight three points today.
First, we call on the Central African Republic Government to continue preparing
for timely, orderly and inclusive local, legislative and presidential elections. While we
take note of the need for adjustments, given the funding and operational challenges,
efforts should be sustained in order to keep the electoral process on track. When held,
those elections will present a vital opportunity to consolidate the Central African
Republic’s hard-won gains. We were encouraged to see the Central African Republic
Government actively promote the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of
women, youth, internally displaced persons and returnees in the first round of voter
registration. Such notable efforts should continue in the following rounds as well. The
recent adoption of the law on the promotion and protection of human rights defenders
and the operationalization of the National Human Rights Steering Committee are
positive developments. However, we are concerned about the shrinking political and
civic space. We hope similar progress will be reflected in the electoral process.
Secondly, we encourage continued improvements in border management
and peaceful transhumance, in line with the Political Agreement for Peace and
Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. The inauguration of the multiservice
border post in Bembéré and the reactivation of the bilateral joint commission
with Chad, after five years, are meaningful steps towards greater stability in the
Central African Republic. Likewise, local-level conferences following the national

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transhumance conference are also promising. Strengthening decentralization and

social cohesion remains essential, as transhumance continues to be a key driver
of violence.
That brings me to my final point. We remain deeply concerned about the
persistent insecurity in the north-west and the east of the Central African Republic.
Transhumance-related incidents and farmer-herder clashes are fuelling armed group
activity, inflicting further suffering on innocent civilians. It is alarming that human
rights violations and abuses increased by 18 per cent since October 2024. Particularly,
conflict-related sexual violence and associating children in combat is not acceptable,
and armed groups must immediately release them unconditionally. The spillover of
the conflict in the Sudan is another grave concern. The presence of the Sudanese
Rapid Support Forces in the Central African Republic only brings more risk to the
already fragile landscape. It is therefore important that the Central African Republic
Government redouble its efforts to reform the security sector and strengthen national
defence capacities. All armed groups must lay down their weapons and join the
peace process in good faith. We commend and extend our support to the important
role MINUSCA is playing on the ground.
The Central African Republic stands at a critical juncture in its transition
from post-conflict recovery to sustainable development. Peacebuilding priorities
will be central to that process. As the informal coordinator between the Security
Council and the Peacebuilding Commission, Korea will seek to foster coherence and
collaboration in both bodies’ commitment to long-lasting peace and stability in the
Central African Republic.
Mr. Sekeris (Greece): I also would like to thank Special Representative of
the Secretary-General Rugwabiza and the President of the Federation of Women
Entrepreneurs of the Central African Republic, Ms. Abazene, for their very
informative briefings. I also welcome the presence of the representative of the
Central African Republic in our meeting.
At the outset, I would like to extend my country’s deepest condolences for the loss
of a peacekeeper of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization
Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), after being attacked by
armed individuals on 11 February. Our sympathy goes to the victim’s family, the
troop-contributing country, Tunisia, and the United Nations. The circumstances of
his death must be fully investigated and perpetrators must be held accountable. We
emphasize that attacks against peacekeepers constitute potential war crimes.
The reporting period under consideration, as highlighted by the Special
Representative of the Secretary-General in her update, was marked by positive
developments in the political process, in particular the advancement of electoral
preparations for the local, as well as legislative and presidential, elections expected
to be held later this year and in 2026.
We welcome the launch of the voters’ registration process, and we encourage all
political parties to contribute to the creation of an inclusive political environment, by
raising electoral awareness and encouraging dialogue. To that end, the registration
and mobilization of women and youth voters is essential, and specific public funding
should be guaranteed by the Government of the Central African Republic for the
support of the general electoral effort.
On the security situation, we acknowledge the further progress being achieved in
the restoration of State authority in areas beyond the capital’s boundaries, a positive
trend to which MINUSCA continues to significantly contribute. Nevertheless, we
express concern about the significant impact that the ongoing conflict in the Sudan
has on the Central African Republic. Recent gains in overall border management

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policy, through recent effective bilateral cooperation with Chad, are undermined by
the transiting of armed groups across the porous north-eastern region of the country.
On the humanitarian front, the country’s situation remains of high concern.
We commend and support all United Nations and humanitarian staff who operate
on the ground, and we call for the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian
assistance to be secured across the Central African Republic’s provinces, which is
indisputably needed.
We continue to witness violations and abuses of human rights in the country.
We are also deeply concerned about the sharp increase in grave violations against
children, especially their recruitment and use, as well as the killing and maiming of
minors. We urge all parties listed in the annexes to the Secretary-General’s report
on children in armed conflict to engage with the United Nations to end and prevent
those grave violations.
It is also important to underline the valuable role of the Special Criminal Cour in
support of transitional justice. We note also the reported progress achieved in areas
of the justice sector by the national courts and their overall improved performance.
In conclusion, Greece remains steadfast in its support for MINUSCA, its
personnel and its leader, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, as they
perform their duties with dedication, under complicated circumstances, contributing
to peace and stability. We stand ready to support the next steps in the political
process, including the organization and successful conduct of elections, which will
pave the way for the full implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace
and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, to the benefit of the country and
its people.
Ms. Evstigneeva (Russian Federation) (spoke in Russian): We would like to
thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Valentine Rugwabiza for her
briefing, and we listened with interest to the statement made by Ms. Portia Abazene.
We welcome the participation in this meeting of the Permanent Representative of the
Central African Republic.
First of all, we would like to convey our condolences to the family and loved
ones of the Tunisian peacekeeper who died on 11 February. Our condolences also go
to the Tunisian Government and the United Nations peacekeeping Mission.
Despite such one-off tragic incidents, the security situation in the Central African
Republic continues to change significantly for the better. In recent years, Bangui,
with the support of the United Nations and bilateral partners, especially Russia, has
managed to make considerable progress in the fight against illegal armed groups
and to ensured State control over 90 per cent of the country’s territory. Threats
have certainly not been definitively eliminated, and work in that area continues.
However, armed groups and bandits have been largely pushed to the borders with
neighbouring countries.
It is now important to support the efforts of the Central African Republic to
ensure border security and to help to prevent cross-border movements of fighters
and stop their weapons supplies. We hope that the United Nations Mission will
provide as much assistance as possible in that regard. We note the efforts made by the
Government of the Central African Republic on that track and on developing border
cooperation with its neighbours. In that regard, positive advancements in official
dialogue between the Central African Republic and Chad appear to be a serious
step forward. The month of January saw the opening of a joint crossing point on
the border between the States, which was done through the assistance of the United
Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African

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Republic (MINUSCA). Prior to that a number of important bilateral agreements had

been signed.
At the same time, we are concerned by the situation along the border with the
Sudan. The border area is controlled by the Rapid Support Forces, which negatively
affects the security situation and is placing an additional burden on humanitarian
action. There is also a growing number of cases of insurgents from the Sudan
infiltrating the Central African Republic, and the illegal trade in weapons and
precious metals is also on the rise. There are reports of fighters in the Central African
Republic being recruited to fight on the side of the Rapid Support Forces.
We support Bangui’s intention to curb challenges in that regard. We are convinced
that the consistent growth in the combat capability of the Armed Forces of the
Central African Republic, combined with international support, will help to ensure
that the necessary response measures are effective. The adoption of resolution 2745
(2024) in July 2024, which fully lifted the arms embargo on the Government of the
Central African Republic, has made a considerable contribution to their successful
implementation and, in general, to the strengthening of security in the country.
MINUSCA is continuing to make a significant contribution to overall efforts
to stabilize the situation in the country. We support its leadership and thank the
troops from troop-contributing countries for their dedication to duty. We note that
the Mission is fostering mutual understanding and constructive dialogue with the
authorities of the host country. It is our hope that, in the period ahead, as mandated,
MINUSCA will provide the necessary assistance to Bangui in the holding of elections
as part of the upcoming election cycles scheduled for this year and 2026. We are
convinced that the successful holding of municipal elections in July — set to be the
first in decades — will be a milestone on the way to resuming a peaceful way of life
and translating security achievements into development progress. We agree with the
Secretary-General’s appeal concerning the need for additional donations to be made
to the trust fund for financing elections.
We trust that the normalization of the situation in the Central African Republic
will allow its people to focus on a constructive domestic agenda. The lifting of export
restrictions under the Kimberley Process, which will allow legal diamond exports to
finally reach internationally competitive levels, is intended to open up a wealth of
opportunity. Through their actions, the authorities of the Central African Republic
have proven their commitment to pursuing efforts to improve the well-being of the
civilian population. At this stage, it is important to support Bangui in building on
the achievements of recent years and in further stabilizing the national territory. It
must not be forgotten that, among other measures, that will also help to improve the
situation throughout the region of the Central African Republic.
Against that backdrop of a marked improvement in the situation in the Central
African Republic and the consistent forging of friendly relations between Moscow and
Bangui — not only between the Governments but also among ordinary people — it is
surprising that our American and British colleagues continue to flog the dead horse
of the smear campaign that they are waging against Russian cooperation. It is time
to realise that the campaign has run out of steam and is futile, given that it is at odds
with reality. Some Council members, for example, have already come to their senses
and changed tack. Russia intends to continue providing comprehensive assistance to
the friendly country of the Central African Republic on a mutually respectful and
equal basis in the interests of lasting peace and security.
The President (spoke in Chinese): I shall now make a statement in my capacity
as the representative of China.
I thank Special Representative Rugwabiza for her briefing and reaffirm our
continued support for her work and that of the United Nations Multidimensional

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Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). I

listened carefully to Ms. Deya Abazene’s observations made from the perspective
of women and development, and I welcome the Permanent Representative of the
Central African Republic to today’s meeting.
China strongly condemns the recent attack on MINUSCA peacekeepers and
expresses its condolences regarding the Tunisian peacekeeper whose life was claimed.
At present, the situation in the Central African Republic is generally good, with
positive progress being made in enhancing governance capacity and advancing
the political peace process. The international community should help to build on
that momentum and step up support for the Central African Republic so that it can
achieve lasting peace and stability. I would like to make three points.
First, the ongoing preparations for elections at various levels in the Central
African Republic are an important step in consolidating peace and have the potential
to set the country on the path to peace, development and prosperity. MINUSCA’s
priority should be to support preparations for elections. We hope that the parties in the
Central African Republic will strive for consensus through dialogue and consultation
on specific elections-related arrangements. The international community should help
the parties in the Central African Republic to forge ahead with those preparations
and avert undue external interference.
Secondly, peace and stability in the Central African Republic are closely
connected to the situation in neighbouring countries. We welcome the recent efforts
undertaken by the Central African Republic with Chad and other neighbouring
countries to strengthen cooperation on security, reinstate intergovernmental
cooperation mechanisms and establish joint border security forces. The international
community should focus its attention on the spillover effects of the conflict in the
Sudan and support the Central African Republic in strengthening security capacity-
building and border controls and in maintaining regional stability.
Thirdly, development is the necessary route to long-term stability. China is
pleased to see the decision by the Kimberley Process at the end of last year to fully
lift the restrictions on the Central African Republic’s export of rough diamonds.
Such exports are seen as a stimulus for the economic recovery of the Central
African Republic.
In providing humanitarian assistance, the international community should, in
the light of the priority areas identified in the Central African Republic’s national
action plan on development, actively step up investment and expand economic and
trade cooperation with the Central African Republic so as to help the country swiftly
attain sustainable development. In that connection, assistance to youth and women
in seeking employment and engaging in entrepreneurship is critical to improving
livelihoods, economic development and social stability.
China has always been a steadfast partner in supporting the Central African
Republic’s development. Last September, while visiting China and attending the
Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, President Touadéra,
together with the Chinese leaders, drew up a road map for practical cooperation
between the two countries. China would like to work with the Central African
Republic to implement the consensus achieved by the two countries’ leaders and
play our part in the Central African Republic’s development, prosperity and long-
term peace and stability.
I resume my functions as President of the Council.
I now give the floor to the representative of Central African Republic.

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Mr. Nzessioué (Central African Republic) (spoke in French): At the outset, allow
me to congratulate the People’s Republic of China on its presidency of the Security
Council and to commend it for its enlightened stewardship of our work this month.
I also wish to welcome the new non-permanent members, whose term began in
January. I wish them every success.
I would also like to express our gratitude to Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza,
Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations
Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic
(MINUSCA), for her tireless efforts in support of the Central African Republic. I
thank Ms. Portia Deya Abazene, President of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs
of the Central African Republic, for her inspiring input.
The Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African
Republic, signed on 6 February 2019, marked its sixth anniversary in February — a
milestone in the recent history of our country. Those six years call to mind the firm
determination of the people of the Central African Republic and His Excellency
Mr. Faustin Archange Touadéra, President of the Republic and the Head of State,
to leave behind decades of violence and forge new prospects founded on unity,
social cohesion and national reconciliation. Since the signing of the Agreement,
the Central African Republic has taken great strides in the quest for peace and the
consolidation of the authority of the State. Thanks to the combined efforts of the
Government, bilateral and multilateral partners, including MINUSCA, and civil
society, nine of the 14 armed groups officially announced that they were disbanding;
7,000 combatants have been disarmed and demobilized and 20,000 weapons of every
calibre have been collected. Those are historic achievements, and they demonstrate
that dialogue, collective engagement and political will are fundamental pillars of
bringing peace to the country.
However, while those achievements are significant, they cannot overshadow
the major challenge that remains: the total eradication of the now-isolated small
armed groups that continue to commit atrocities against the peaceful population.
The objective of the President of the Republic is clear and unwavering: to achieve a
Central African Republic free of the presence of any illegal weapons and guarantee
a future in which every citizen can live in the peace, security and dignity that
they deserve. That fight, which requires commitment and perseverance, will not
stop until the last weapon has been laid down and no armed groups threaten the
State’s sovereignty.
In that context, we once again call on all reticent armed factions to join the peace
process. The door to dialogue remains wide open, and the Political Agreement for
Peace and Reconciliation, along with the Luanda road map, remains the legitimate
and structured framework for achieving definitive peace and reconciliation together.
All stakeholders now have the historic responsibility to promote adherence to, and
the implementation of, that peace process. I want to mention the important role of
the guarantors and facilitators of the process, but also that of the Security Council,
which will have to move away from conventional rhetoric and take effective measures
that could force recalcitrant armed groups to return to the peace process. Moreover,
concrete implementation and monitoring of individual sanctions, combined with
careful and ambitious work on the groups’ sources of supply and financing, could
enable us to finally achieve those objectives.
Despite some attacks by isolated individuals along the border, the security
situation in the Central African Republic remains stable, thanks to the efforts of the
Government and our international partners. Like all variants of the Coalition des
patriotes pour le changement, these small armed groups continue to attack the civilian
population and sow terror, targeting our defence forces, MINUSCA and humanitarian

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convoys. They plunder villages and markets, prevent the free movement of goods and
people and seriously disrupt the electoral census process. Such insecurity is a direct
threat to the democratic process that we are trying to consolidate.
This is the place for me to express our solidarity with, and compassion for,
MINUSCA following the death of the Tunisian peacekeeper who fell victim to
the cowardly attack perpetrated on 11 February against one of its convoys in the
prefecture of Bamingui-Bangoran. We firmly condemn the act and offer our sincere
condolences to his family and the people and the Government of Tunisia. The Central
African Government, guided by the principle of zero tolerance, is fully committed
to working with MINUSCA to ensure that that act does not go unpunished and
that its perpetrators are brought before the competent courts. In the border areas,
the ongoing crisis in the Sudan is having a serious impact on our country. The
proliferation of cross-border armed groups is aggravating the situation, particularly
in the Vakaga area, where repeated incursions threaten the stability of the region.
The influx of foreign fighters, coupled with the massive increase in the number of
Sudanese refugees, is exerting unsustainable security and humanitarian pressure on
our territory.
The Central African Republic cannot face those challenges alone. Protecting our
borders is an absolute priority. We cannot allow those areas to become sanctuaries
for armed groups that undermine our national and regional security. We must act
to support the Central African Government in its stabilization efforts. I call on
the international community to strengthen its support for the Armed Forces of the
Central African Republic and the internal security forces, in particular through
increased training, logistics and intelligence capacities. I also call for a strengthening
of MINUSCA’s mandate for more proactive action in the face of such threats. In
addition, I would like to advocate for more rigorous control of cross-border flows and
increased support for the management of refugees in order to prevent any infiltration
of armed fighters into our country.
I would like to make the following key observations, which will enlighten the
members of the Council as to the human rights situation. The topic of human rights
in the Central African Republic has been placed at the epicentre of our public policy.
In that regard, we once again wish to reiterate our firm commitment to collaborating
fully with MINUSCA and the Panel of Experts in documenting cases of serious
violations of human rights and international humanitarian law and, beyond that, in
the search for manifestation of the truth, victims’ access to justice and the effective
implementation of the national human rights policy. It is also important to specify that
the national policy is accompanied by an initial five-year action plan for the period
2023–2027, with an estimated budget of CFA3 billion, for the implementation of 268
activities, in particular those aimed at improving prison conditions and reducing the
rate of human rights violations in the Central African Republic. Lastly, the persistent
violations of human rights and international humanitarian law have also driven the
Government to redouble its efforts to find ways of ensuring effective protection for
the civilian population.
It is with hope that I take the floor today to bring to members’ attention a
crucial stage in the political and democratic history of the Central African Republic.
Our country is preparing to hold local elections — an event that marks a decisive
turning point in the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law. It has been more
than three decades since the people of the Central African Republic have had the
opportunity to elect their local representatives. This long-awaited electoral process
is a unique opportunity to strengthen local governance, bring institutions closer to
citizens and fully restore the authority of the State throughout the territory. The
Government, in close collaboration with MINUSCA and its partners, is working to
ensure an inclusive, free and transparent election. That commitment is essential to

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rebuilding trust between citizens and our country’s democratic institutions, because
we know that a credible and well-organized electoral process is a fundamental pillar
of stability and lasting peace.
However, we must face major challenges. One of the most pressing challenges
is the financing of the elections. To carry out the process successfully, we still need
financial support of $7 million. I commend the contributions already made by our
international partners, which demonstrate their commitment to democracy and
stability in the Central African Republic. However, additional resources must be
mobilized to ensure the effective holding of the electoral process. The organization
of these local elections is a key step towards the consolidation of the State, the
prevention of conflicts and the renewal of a social contract between the authorities
and the population. By supporting the process, the international community will
contribute directly to the peace and development of our country. Therefore, today I
call on the Security Council and certain members of the Council to set aside their
geopolitical considerations — which have nothing to do with us and are pushing
them to look for a needle in a haystack at all costs — to continue to help us in this
democratic process. I call for international mobilization to ensure the success of
the electoral process and ensure that our citizens can exercise their right to vote in
complete safety.
Today the Central African Republic is taking a new step forward with the
confirmation of its status as a full participant in the Kimberley Process and the
lifting of all restrictions on the export of its rough diamonds. That decision, taken
at the Kimberley Process plenary in Dubai in November 2024, is the result of an
unwavering commitment by the Central African Government and its partners to
restoring the legitimacy and transparency of our diamond industry. The Central
African Government has worked tirelessly to implement the requirements of the
Kimberley Process, by strengthening the regulatory framework and improving
control and traceability mechanisms. The promulgation, on 21 August 2024, of a
new mining code will allow the Central African Republic to promote investments
and fight against fraud in this strategic sector.
Thanks to those important advances, our country is demonstrating its firm
commitment to guaranteeing that the diamond trade is transparent, secure and in
line with international standards. The Central African Republic expresses its deep
gratitude to the Chair of the Kimberly Process, under the leadership of the United
Arab Emirates, which has played a key role in achieving that crucial milestone.
I would also like to thank all the international partners, member States of the
Kimberley Process, civil society organizations, experts and all those who have
contributed, through their technical support, commitment and cooperation, to that
collective success. That progress is a testament to what can be achieved when national
efforts are supported, without manipulation or bad faith, through solid international
cooperation and a shared vision for sustainable development and the governance of
natural resources.
I would like to reiterate again that every step forward in peace and security
must be consolidated by concrete and lasting action. We know that peace is not just
the absence of conflict; it must be anchored in inclusive economic growth, effective
governance and real opportunities for our people. It is that vision that has guided
the development of the national development plan 2024-2028, which today is our
road map for a more stable and prosperous future. That plan, based on four strategic
axes, reflects a strong ambition: to make the Central African Republic a country
in which peace and progress go together, where every citizen can benefit from the
fruits of development and where institutional stability becomes a driving force for
prosperity. The lifting of restrictions on diamonds is a unique opportunity for the
Government to mobilize additional resources in support of the ambitious national

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development plan. We are convinced that, thanks to those new growth prospects, we
will be able to strengthen our institutional capacities, create jobs and improve the
living conditions of our people.
It is in that same spirit that the Government has put in place a stabilization
programme aimed at accelerating the redeployment of State authority, guaranteeing
access to basic social services and relaunching the local economy. The programme
was implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme
(UNDP), beginning in 2023, and is starting to bear fruit. One of the key achievements
of that initiative was the inauguration, in October 2024 in Bossangoa, of the first
infrastructure built under the programme, in the presence of His Excellency the
President of the Republic and Head of State, along with our financial and technical
partners. The event marked a decisive step in our commitment to restore hope to our
people affected by years of conflict and insecurity.
Consolidating peace requires concrete action and sustained commitment. That is
why, from this rostrum, I am making a solemn appeal to our international partners to
step up their financial support for the UNDP-led stabilization programme. Increased
mobilization of resources will enable us to extend the programme to other localities,
in particular along the border areas with Cameroon, Chad and the Sudan, where the
security and humanitarian challenges remain worrisome.
In addition to the redeployment of the State and economic recovery, the programme
plays a crucial role in strengthening peace and social cohesion. It provides invaluable
assistance to populations that have long been marginalized and offers a tangible
opportunity for reconstruction and reconciliation. It is our collective responsibility
to ensure that those efforts are not in vain and that the progress continues unhindered.
We are aware, however, that the humanitarian challenges remain urgent and
largely underfunded. Despite the combined efforts of the Government and the
international community, the situation on the ground remains fragile. Many displaced
and vulnerable people continue to require vital support. We therefore urge all our
partners to maintain their humanitarian support. It is crucial that the momentum of
solidarity continue and that assistance to the populations most at risk be maintained
and reinforced.
We would also like to remind all our partners that our national development plan
offers a clear and ambitious road map for the sustainable recovery and stabilization
of the Central African Republic. We are firmly committed and unswervingly
optimistic, even though we are fully aware of the scope of the task ahead.
With that in mind, the Central African Republic reiterates its commitment to
the effective implementation of the plan, to ensure that we are not dependent on
external aid in the long term. We are determined to use our resources responsibly
and transparently to stimulate growth, consolidate peace and promote the emergence
of a strong and diversified private sector.
In that respect, MINUSCA, in its multidimensional role, must be a source of
economic opportunities for young people and women, who find their resilience in
entrepreneurship. In that regard, I would like to stress how important it is for us
that MINUSCA promote local procurement so that the Central African Republic can
achieve its vision of inclusive and sustainable development.
The President (spoke in Chinese): There are no more names inscribed on the list
of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our
discussion of the subject.
The meeting rose at 11.45 a.m.

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