The Political and Security Situation in Mali

The Political and Security Situation in Mali

Press Statement
Mark C. Toner
Acting Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
April 6, 2012

________________________________________

We do not recognize the statement by the National Movement for the Liberation of the Azawad (MNLA) announcing independence as valid, and we reiterate our support for the territorial integrity of Mali. We stand by the African Union, France, and others in their statements rejecting the MNLA’s announcement and calling for the unwavering commitment to the national unity of Mali. A separate Azawad state will only exacerbate the grave problems challenging the Malian state. We also call on the MNLA to cease all military operations.

We urge all armed groups to engage in dialogue with civilian leaders in Bamako to find a nonviolent path forward for national elections and a peaceful coexistence.

ENDS

© Scoop Media