Abidjan - Cote d'Ivoire — The Government of Mali has reaffirmed its "determination to fulfil its obligations" arising from the UN Security Council Resolution 2085 authorising the deployment of an African-led force AFISMA) in the country and other "relevant decisions" of ECOWAS and the African Union.

At the opening of the extraordinary session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC) in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire on 18th January 2013, the Minister of Malians Abroad and African Integration, Mr. Demba Traore also reiterated the determination of the transitional authorities to meet the threats posed by terrorist groups to the integrity of the country. "Mali reiterates the call by ECOWAS and the African Union for the rapid deployment of AFISMA," he said while thanking ECOWAS countries which have announced the contribution of troops and urged them to quickly deploy their contingents.

More than ever before, he said the prompt implementation of Resolution 2085, particularly the components on AFISMA deployment and Donor Conference, has become a priority in the provision of support to the military operation underway to wipe out terrorism and restore Mali's territorial integrity.

The Minister also welcomed the holding of MSC meeting in the wake of the renewed attacks and advance by the terrorist groups. Minister Traore confirmed that the Government of Mali requested for and obtained the military assistance of France within the contest of bilateral agreements between bother countries and in line with the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2085 adopted in December 2012. He also seized the opportunity to thank the French President and the Government and people of France for providing the necessary assistance for the restoration of Mali's territorial integrity and for peacekeeping and security within the region and the world.

The Minister also thanked ECOWAS Member States and Mali's bilateral and multilateral partners for their support and solidarity.