A United Nations delegation has concluded a three-day mission to Ouagadougou, reaffirming its commitment to cooperating with Burkina Faso despite the recent expulsion of the UN Resident Coordinator.
The UN’s Regional Director for Africa, Yacoub Ali El Hillo, met with the head of the Burkinabe government on Wednesday. He described their discussions as “frank and constructive.” The visit followed the government’s decision to declare UN Resident Coordinator Carol Flore-Smereczniak “persona non grata” for her alleged role in a report on the situation of children in the country that authorities deemed “false.”
El Hillo emphasized the UN’s respect for Burkina Faso’s sovereignty. “We respect the sovereignty of Burkina Faso, and we are committed to continuing to move forward, in service and in full partnership,” he stated. He added that while the UN regrets the “exceptional moment,” it fully respects the government’s decision.
For his part, the Burkinabe Prime Minister reaffirmed the country’s willingness to work with the UN, but stressed that Burkina Faso is fighting for its sovereignty and will not tolerate any actions that could be seen as legitimizing terrorism.
The high-level visit signals both sides’ desire to maintain their partnership despite the recent diplomatic challenges.
HO/ac/Sf/fss/abj/APA