Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, following the military coup on 18 August in Mali, what assessment they have made of (1) the current political situation in that country, and (2) the progress of talks to resolve the crisis between mediators from the Economic Community of West African States and the coup leaders.

The UK is concerned about the current political crisis in Mali, which is creating uncertainty at a time when the country is facing multiple security, humanitarian and health challenges. In his statement on 19 August, the Minister for Africa condemned the coup and urged all actors to exercise restraint, respect human rights and the rule of law and engage constructively in efforts to find a resolution. It is vital that the current crisis does not undermine efforts to respond to the deeply troubling humanitarian situation, drive forward development and build stability in Mali. The coup leaders' stated commitment to their international partnerships and the Malian peace process is welcome, as is their decision to enter into dialogue with a wide range of Malian actors to determine the shape of transition.

We support the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in their efforts to encourage a successful transition and to ensure the release of detainees. We are working with international partners to encourage a transition that can deliver a legitimate, civilian government that meets the needs and aspirations of the Malian people. The UK hopes that a successful transition can help Mali to respond better to the complex governance challenges that have driven instability and impeded development in recent years.