The arms embargo remains an important tool in the maintenance of peace and stability in the Central African Republic

President,

I would like to start by thanking France as penholder for their tireless efforts to achieve consensus.

We have been clear throughout the negotiations that in our view, the arms embargo remains an important tool for supporting the maintenance of peace and stability in the Central African Republic.

We remain convinced that further proliferation of arms, both within the country and the wider region, would have a destabilising effect. And we are seriously concerned by continuing allegations of atrocities against civilians, not only by armed groups, but also by government forces and their security partners.

It is therefore crucial that the notification process set out in this resolution is implemented in a timely and thorough way to maximize transparency.

We will continue to follow this closely through the Central African Republic Sanctions Committee.

Thank you.