Opening Statement
The past week has seen vigorous activity by an international community united in its determination to see democracy restored to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. In addition to travel sanctions announced by the United States a week ago, the European Union has taken a firm and principled position with its unequivocal demand for the release of President Abdallahi and the return of constitutional rule to Mauritania. The Chairman of the African Union Commission has underscored the solidarity of the international community in confronting this crisis. The United States joins Chairman Ping in calling upon the military junta to seize the opportunity afforded by the 30 day delay accorded by the European Union to take the necessary steps to avoid the possibility of additional measures.
We reiterate our demand that President Abdallahi be freed, that he be restored to his functions and that constitutional rule be reestablished. We urge Mauritania to forsake the path of isolation and confrontation with the international community. We remain convinced that only through a return to constitutional rule and reconciliation with the international community will Mauritania be able to find its own legitimate and durable solutions to the many challenges it faces.