5 September 2012 - The situation in Burundi and the country's collaboration with the United Nations were at the center of a meeting held today between the President of the Republic of Burundi, Pierre Nkurunziza, and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office in Burundi (BNUB), Parfait Onanga-Anyanga.

Speaking to the press at the end of the meeting, the President highlighted the United Nations' readiness to help Burundi consolidate its achievements. He praised the significant steps Burundi has already taken to recover from the crisis and to foster reconstruction and development, despite the difficult financial climate. SRSG Onanga-Anyanga, he told reporters, "came here to encourage us and to inform us that the organization he represents will continue to support peace consolidation and development in Burundi."

SRSG Onanga-Anyanga confirmed the United Nations's commitment to support the people of Burundi and the Government in achieving their own priorities. "We are here to support you, and to help Burundi advance on its path of peace consolidation, security and development", stated Mr. Onanga. "We look forward to working together on the challenges that remain, building on the significant progress already made."