Bamako, October 10, 2023 - Today, in accordance with its withdrawal plan as previously communicated to the Malian authorities, MINUSMA completed the withdrawal of its troops from the outposts in Kidal supporting the reconstituted Malian Armed Forces Battalion (BATFAR), to allow the blue helmets to regroup in the Mission's camp in this locality in preparation for their imminent repatriation home.

In this context, and in consultation with the various stakeholders, and for strictly humanitarian reasons, MINUSMA has agreed to welcome 111 elements of the BATFAR into its camp in Kidal today.

Set up to reinforce the security perimeter around Kidal, including the MINUSMA camp there, and to help stabilize the region, these outposts were part of the Mission's support for the implementation of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement resulting from the Algiers Process.

With the adoption of Resolution 2690 on June 30, 2023, following the Malian authorities' request for the withdrawal of MINUSMA, the mandate to support the implementation of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement came to an immediate end. Since then, the Mission's efforts have been redirected towards its withdrawal, within the timeframe stipulated by the Security Council.

MINUSMA began the second phase of its drawdown plan on September 01, 2023. During the month of October, the Mission intends to proceed with the closure of three camps in Douentza in the Centre, and Aguelhok and Tessalit in the North.

MINUSMA and the UN Secretariat are determined to do their utmost to complete the withdrawal on schedule, which is by December 31, 2023 at the latest, despite very difficult security, logistical and other circumstances, with top priority given to the safety of Mission personnel.