Abdoulaye Maïga, Mali’s Deputy Prime Minister, in UN General Assembly, highlighted that Mali has been in crisis since 2012 due to terrorist and armed groups, losing control of over half its territory and suffering many deaths.
The crisis worsened when armed groups to gain strenght in 2006 and NATO’s intervention in Libya in 2011. These events fueled insecurity, trafficking, and community conflicts.
In response, after Colonel Assimi Goïta became President in 2021, Mali reorganized its Defense and Security Forces, working toward reclaiming sovereignty.
Maïga pointed to progress, such as the adoption of a new Constitution in July 2023 and the upcoming Inter-Malian Dialogue for Peace in December 2023.
He reported that Mali has recaptured all regions, including Kidal, from terrorist groups and is dismantling remaining networks. The government is also implementing a comprehensive strategy combining security with political, economic, and social development, including dialogue with armed groups.
However, criminal groups and foreign sponsors continue to challenge Mali’s integrity. Maïga condemned foreign state support for these groups, particularly criticizing Ukraine and France for their alleged roles in promoting terrorism. He praised allies like Russia, China, Türkiye, and Iran for their support.
