Colleagues,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3+, namely Algeria, Somalia, Sierra Leone and my own country, Guyana.

We thank Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations for his briefing and welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting.

The A3+ reaffirms its full support to MINUSCA and expresses deep appreciation to all troop- and police-contributing countries for their commitment in advancing the mission’s mandate, even under difficult circumstances.

We strongly condemn the attack carried out on last Friday in Am-Sissia village, which resulted in the death of a third MINUSCA peacekeeper this year, following the attacks of last February and March.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the fallen peacekeeper, the Zambian Government, and to MINUSCA. We emphasize that the deliberate targeting of peacekeepers may constitute a war crime and call for a swift investigation and for the perpetuators to be held fully accountable.

We urge all parties to honour their obligations and respect international humanitarian law and ensure the safety and security of all UN personnel.

We also express condolences to the family, people and government of the Central African Republic following yesterday’s explosion near the Barthelemy Boganda high school which resulted in a stampede that caused at least 21 fatalities. We welcome MINUSCA’s role in promptly responding to provide medical services to those affected.

Colleagues,

The A3+ welcomes the ongoing implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation, which continues to provide a foundation for inclusive political dialogue and national reconciliation. We note the progress achieved, particularly the integration of 9 out of 14 armed groups. This reflects genuine steps towards demobilization and reintegration.

We are encouraged by the continued expansion of state authority across the country but remain concerned about the ineffective implementation of the arms embargo.

Colleagues,

The A3+ is also alarmed by the persistent insecurity in the northwest, centre, and eastern regions, exacerbated by armed groups competing over natural resources and trade routes. We reiterate our call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and for non-signatory armed groups to join the peace process in good faith.

The A3+ underscores the importance of the upcoming local and national elections as a milestone for democratic consolidation. We commend the efforts of national authorities, MINUSCA, UNDP, and other partners in supporting electoral preparations, including the completion of voter registration in all 20 prefectures.

However, we note with concern the significant funding gap affecting the electoral process. With only a portion of the required resources secured, we join the USG in appealing to the international community and donors to increase support, including through the UNDP-managed basket fund. Ensuring that the August local elections and subsequent presidential and legislative elections are inclusive, transparent, and peaceful must remain a shared priority.

We also urge that MINUSCA receives the necessary resources, including adequate air assets, to effectively fulfil its mandate, particularly in facilitating the peaceful and timely conduct of the electoral process.

We remain seriously concerned about the alarming humanitarian and human rights situation, particularly in areas affected by violence. We take note of the latest joint MINUSCA and OHCHR report documenting conflict-related sexual violence and violations. We stress the need to strengthen national accountability mechanisms and protect civilians, particularly women and children.

Colleagues,

The A3+ acknowledges the worsening spillover effects from the Sudan conflict, which pose additional risks to CAR’s fragile stability. We encourage continued coordination between MINUSCA, CAR authorities, and regional organizations to strengthen border security.

The A3+ firmly condemns the incursions by the Rapid Support Forces into the territory of the Central African Republic and their reported collaboration with local armed groups.

We reiterate our concern regarding MINUSCA’s resource constraints, including unpaid assessed contributions, which currently stand at over $400 million. Adequate, predictable, and timely financing is essential for the Mission to deliver on its mandate, especially during this critical electoral period.

In conclusion, the A3+ reiterates its firm support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Central African Republic. We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of that country in their pursuit of peace, stability, and development. We reaffirm our continued support to MINUSCA, and to the efforts of the United Nations and regional actors to build sustainable peace.

Thank you.