The Political and Security Situation in Mali
Press Statement
Mark C. Toner
Acting Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
April 6, 2012
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We do not recognize the statement by the National Movement for the Liberation of the Azawad (MNLA) announcing
independence as valid, and we reiterate our support for the territorial integrity of Mali. We stand by the African
Union, France, and others in their statements rejecting the MNLA’s announcement and calling for the unwavering
commitment to the national unity of Mali. A separate Azawad state will only exacerbate the grave problems challenging
the Malian state. We also call on the MNLA to cease all military operations.
We urge all armed groups to engage in dialogue with civilian leaders in Bamako to find a nonviolent path forward for
national elections and a peaceful coexistence.
ENDS