We strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in Burkina Faso and Mali. Our prayers are with the families of those killed and injured in this senseless violence.

In Mali, terrorists killed one UN peacekeeper and several other employees of the UN peacekeeping mission. Attacks on innocent civilians and those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect them are especially shameful.

We take these threats to the peace and security of the region seriously and we will continue to support countries in the region in their efforts to combat terrorism.