Chair,
Let meg begin by thanking Minister Fadoul and Deputy Minister Acy, and commending Chad for actively engaging with the Peacebuilding Commission.
This is an inspiration to us all to work more strategically in preventing conflict in our own countries.
Chair,
We recognize that Chad’s peacebuilding efforts are faced with very difficult challenges.
There are compounding conflict-drivers stemming from severe effects of climate change, war in neighboring countries, a huge population of refugees, cross-border crime and terrorism, proliferation of small arms, and a number of other causes.
Working strategically and systematically to address root causes, in partnership with the UN and global partners, is the only way to go – to advance sustaining peace.
The National Strategy for Social Cohesion is a testament to such an approach.
Its emphasis on rule of law, dialogue and reconciliation between communities, WPS and YPS, good governance and public service delivery, constitutes the central pillar of a preventive approach.
It is encouraging to see the support Chad is getting from the World Bank IDA’s FCV Envelope, and the UN Peacebuilding Fund in translating the strategy into concrete action on the ground.
The same goes for the broad-based humanitarian efforts of the UN system in Chad.
Norway is a large contributor to all of these efforts.
Chair,
Chad’s hospitality and open doors policy towards refugees fleeing from horrible conditions in Sudan, is commendable and an example to others.
We contribute support to UNHCR and the Norwegian Refugee Council’s work to assist the refugees.
Our minister of development recently visited the Adre border and was impressed with the assistance provided.
Humanitarian access through Chad is critical in order to assist civilians in Darfur
Thank you again for engaging openly and actively with the PBC.
The success of Chad in conflict prevention and peacebuilding is vital to the entire region.
Thank you.