We welcome the signing in Ouagadougou on 18 June 2013 of the "Tentative Agreement for the Presidential Election and Peace Talks in Mali" between the Malian Administration and Tuareg groups which envisages the holding of the Presidential elections also in Kidal and the continuation of peace talks after the elections and consider this an important step for the stability of Mali.

We congratulate the Burkina Faso Authorities and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their significant contribution to the successful conclusion of the reconciliation talks between the parties as well as all parties who exerted efforts in reaching this agreement.

In this context, we hope for the implementation of this agreement, which, we believe, will contribute to peace and stability both in Mali and in the region, under the best circumstances and for a successful conclusion of the process leading up to the Presidential elections, the first round of which will be held in July.

As it has always been the case, Turkey will continue to provide strong support in the political and economic fields to the brotherly and friendly people and administration of Mali within the framework of our developing bilateral cooperation.