Guatemala Earthquake: The SG is saddened by the loss of life, and the damage to Guatemala as a result of the earthquake that struck off the coast of the country yesterday. He extends his sincere condolences to the Guatemalan government and people, particularly the families of those who have been killed or otherwise affected in this disaster. He noted that the UN stands ready to lend its and to mobilize any international support needed for that response.
The SC: The SC received an update on the situation in Libya today from the SRSG for that country, Tarek Mitri, who briefed Council members by videolink from Tripoli. He noted that Libya has moved forward in its political transformation and discussed the recent fighting in Bani Walid, where UNSMIL is providing teams to help assess humanitarian needs and to assist authorities in clearing munitions there.
Aid to Cuba: More than 40 tons of humanitarian assistance for Cuba’s second largest urban center, Santiago de Cuba – an area hit hard by Hurricane Sandy – arrived today to assist the area in storm recovery. The shipment was facilitated by recently allocated CERF funds and backed by OCHA, UNICEF, UNDP, and UNFPA. Comprising basic commodities for living, the shipment will be followed by a second 40-ton shipment of similar supplies on Saturday.
Mali: OCHA announced today that 4.6 million people remain at risk of food insecurity in Mali and that access to food for people living in the north is deteriorating. Access to education for thousands of children in the North poses a major challenge to the country, with 130 schools in the South damaged following floods in September and October. Funding for assistance in the country remains insufficient, with only 49% of requirements
covered.
Rule of Law: Now is the time to come together and promote the work of the UN for the rule of law, DSG Jan Eliasson said today, noting the different comparative advantages within the world body that complement one another and can be used to achieve this goal. In a presentation to the UN System Chief Executives Board, which brings together the heads of UN organizations with the aim of enhancing cooperation and coordination amongst them, the DSG urged a “common approach” to building “solid foundations for peace and security in post-conflict States.”