Mali - Q&A - Excerpts from the daily press briefing (12.06.18)

A - The presidential election in Mali represents an important step for Malian democracy. It will be an opportunity to assume responsibility for collective challenges, and particularly the implementation of the peace agreement. That is why credibility and transparency are key aspects of the election process.

France, like all of Mali’s partners, including the UN secretary-general and the independent observer of the peace agreement in their respective reports, has noted delays and a lack of political will in the implementation of the peace agreement. It also noted progress in recent months, which must continue and be expanded upon. That means stepping up joint patrols in northern Mali, ensuring the effective functioning of local governments, and beginning the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process.