We are closely observing the developments taking place as a result of the spreading of clashes taking place at the North, to the south of the friendly and brotherly Mali.

In this regard, we would like to reiterate once again the importance the Republic of Turkey attributes to the territorial integrity of Mali.

As the Republic of Turkey, we hope that Mali will reach once again the environment of peace and serenity, as soon as possible , and we will continue to support the international efforts exerted with a view to re-establish national reconciliation and the environment of democracy through free elections. The Republic of Turkey, inter alia, believes that it is beneficial to implement the UN Security Council Resolution on Mali numbered 2085 (2012) as soon as possible and supports the decisions of the Organization of African Union and the Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) regarding the developments in Mali.

We would like to emphasize hereby, as Turkey, that we also attach special attention to the fact that the conflict in Mali will reach a peaceful resolution as soon as possible. To this end, H.E. Davutoğlu had a meeting regarding the recent developments in Mali with H.E. Mr. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), on January 17 and exchanged views about the initiatives that OIC could take as well as the steps to be taken in conjungtion.

As it has always been the case, Turkey will continue to support the brotherly people and administration of Mali. In this regard, we will continue our strong support to this country in political and economical fields following the re-establishment of peace and stability.