Security Council lauds accord between Burundian Government and rebel group

The United Nations Security Council today welcomed the 17 June agreement between Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza and Agathon Rwasa, leader of the Palipehutu-National Liberation Forces (PALIPEHUTU-FNL), to implement the ceasefire they reached last year.

“The resumption of the dialogue represents a major milestone on the way to peace consolidation in Burundi,” Council President and Belgian Ambassador Johan C. Verbeke said in a press statement.

The 15-member body commended the efforts of Tanzania – which hosted the recent talks between the two sides in Dar-es-Salaam – as well as those of South Africa, Uganda and the African Union in supporting the peace process.

Appealing for “continued dialogue, consensus-building and inclusiveness in order to achieve a successful transition,” the Council called on both sides to press forward with efforts to fully implement the Comprehensive Ceasefire Agreement of 7 September 2006.

The Council’s statement echoes that of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who welcomed the same agreement earlier this week, expressing the hope that “both parties will maintain the momentum created in Dar-es-Salaam to allow for the earliest recovery and consolidation of peace.”

Yesterday, the UN Peacebuilding Commission – which focuses on reconstruction, institution-building and the promotion of sustainable development to prevent countries from sliding back into bloodshed – endorsed the framework to engage Burundi, the UN and other international partners to work together to consolidate peace in the African country.