Mali condemns Algerian hostility

BAMAKO - Mali's transitional government has strongly condemned what it describes as "unfriendly acts and instances of hostility and interference in the internal affairs of the country" by Algerian authorities. The government accuses Algeria of actions that "undermine national security and the sovereignty of Mali."

In a public statement released on Thursday evening, the transitional government highlighted several issues, including the unilateral imposition of a transition period on Malian authorities, the reception of subversive Malian citizens and individuals pursued by Mali's justice for acts of terrorism without prior consultation, and the existence of offices on Algerian territory representing groups signatory to the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, now labeled as terrorist actors.

The government also expressed concern over Algeria's efforts to maintain United Nations sanctions against Mali, particularly at a time when the Non-Aligned Movement and the Federation of Russia opposed such sanctions in Mali's interest.

Additionally, the statement accuses Algerian authorities of influencing the inclusion of a chapter on Mali in the final document of the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Kampala, Uganda, without the consent of Malian authorities.

Malian officials emphasized the need for responsible behaviour and mutual respect in maintaining good neighbourly relations. The government called on both national and international communities to recognize the disparity between Algeria's hostile maneuvers and its responsibility as a member of the United Nations Security Council, which is primarily tasked with maintaining international peace and security.

The statement demanded an immediate cessation of Algerian hostility and pointedly questioned how Algerian authorities would feel if Mali were to host representatives of the movement for the self-determination of Kabylia at the highest levels of the state.

Furthermore, the transitional government urged Algerian authorities to reflect on their role in the deterioration of the security situation in the Sahel, emphasizing the historical connection between the establishment of the Algerian Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC) in the Sahara and the rise of international terrorism in the region.

In a significant move, the government of Mali announced the "immediate termination" of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, citing its "instrumentalization by Algerian authorities." The government reiterated its commitment to fostering friendly relations globally, emphasizing the importance of respecting Mali's sovereignty and considering the vital interests of the Malian people in all decisions.