FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
United States Welcomes Mali Agreement
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
June 19, 2013
The United States welcomes the Preliminary Agreement on Presidential Elections and Inclusive Peace Talks in Mali signed by the interim Government of Mali and northern armed groups. The agreement clears the way for the return of Malian administrative and security authorities to Kidal to permit the holding of presidential elections there on July 28. It also sets the stage for a second phase of negotiations and inclusive dialogue with an elected Malian Government aimed at fostering national reconciliation and building a sustainable peace. We applaud the leadership of the ECOWAS, African Union, and UN mediators and international partners. As an active participant in the efforts of the international community in Mali, we welcome the opportunity to support efforts to oversee implementation of the agreement.
