Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the Peacebuilding Commission Ambassadorial-level meeting on São Tomé and Príncipe

Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

Let me begin by extending our warm welcome to His Excellency Mr. Carlos Vila Nova, the President of São Tomé and Príncipe. I would also like to thank all other briefers for their valuable and insightful presentations.

Madam Chair, Excellencies.

Slovenia commends São Tomé and Príncipe and its continued engagement with the Peacebuilding Commission and in particular welcomes the presentation of its Conflict Prevention Strategy. This reflects the country’s strong commitment to advancing peacebuilding and sustaining peace. The Commission remains an important platform for sharing best practices and exchanging lessons learned. It is also important platform for mobilizing support for the nationally-led prevention and peacebuilding efforts. In this vein we appreciate briefers from African Development Bank as well as SRSG.

The strategy presented today offers a clear national vision, informed by extensive consultations with a broad range of stakeholders. The strategy provides guidance for stabilisation efforts in the lead-up to next year’s elections and beyond. We welcome strong national ownership and active participation of civil society, as demonstrated also today by briefing of Women Lawyers Association. We also welcome emphasis on enhancing the role of women in the armed forces and security services in all positions. We commend the inclusion of measures to address sexual and gender-based violence.

Moreover, the strategic focus on sustainable economic development, with the strong focus on protecting natural resources and building climate resilience remains critical to long-term stability. And with this goal in mind, cooperation between public and private sector as well as IFSs is indispensable.

Madam Chair, Excellencies,

In conclusion, the successful implementation of the Conflict Prevention Strategy depends on the mobilisation of adequate, predictable and sustained financial resources. In this regard, we encourage strengthened collaboration with Peacebuilding Fund, with regional and multilateral development banks and other partners to help identify and secure the necessary support.

Slovenia remains committed to supporting São Tomé and Príncipe in the implementation of its Conflict Prevention Strategy and wish the country every success in this important endeavour.

Thank you very much.

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