Brussels, 31 March 2021/OACPS/JPA: In a virtual Bureau meeting of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly on 30 March 2021, Co-Presidents Hon. Carlos Zorrinho, Member of the European Parliament(MEP) for theProgressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D)group, Portugal and Hon. Faumuina Liuga (Member of Parliament, Samoa), expressed their serious concerns over the escalating violence in the Northern Province of Mozambique, Cabo Delgado in reaction to the brutal attacks last week on the Mozambican town of Palma.

The attacks and the chaos caused by the terrorist invaders is probably one of the most serious crises the Mozambican government has faced so far during the Cabo Delgado insurgency. It raises renewed questions about the ability of the Mozambican forces to ensure adequate security for the region and its citizens. It additionally challenges the viability of the forthcoming important gas/energy projects.

In order to prevent further escalation and to restore peace and security in the Northern Province, the two Co-Presidents call upon the Mozambican government and the European Union (EU) to implement the agreed comprehensive three level support plan. It will/should establish a framework that allows support to the province in its fight against terrorism and insurgency, in cooperation and coordination with regional authorities, countries in the region and its multilateral organization, the South African Development Community (SADC).