SECRETARY-GENERAL STRESSES NEED FOR CEASE-FIRE, SUSTAINED TALKS ON ZAIRE'S FUTURE
Press Release
SG/SM/6204
AFR/2
SECRETARY-GENERAL STRESSES NEED FOR CEASE-FIRE, SUSTAINED TALKS ON ZAIRE'S FUTURE
19970414 The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary- General Kofi Annan:While I am pleased that the parties to the conflict in Zaire have accepted the five-point peace plan endorsed by the Security Council, I am concerned that its implementation has not yet begun in earnest. There is no firm cease-fire.
Mohamed Sahnoun, the joint United Nations/Organization of African Unity (OAU) Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region, has energetically pursued a peaceful and democratic transition in Zaire. I thank those countries that have supported his efforts; but more needs to be done.
I, therefore, appeal to all Member States to press Laurent Kabila and his supporters in the Great Lakes region to seek a negotiated solution through a cease-fire and sustained talks on the future of Zaire. I am also encouraged that President Mobutu Sese Seko has agreed to a dialogue with Mr. Kabila. A durable solution cannot be achieved through military means.
It is obvious that Zaire is on the verge of major political change; but this change has to be managed, with the support of the international community, in a concerted and focused manner. In such situations, progress is usually made when the entire international community comes together.
The stakes are high. If we are successful, Zaire could begin to move in the direction of national reconciliation, democracy and prosperity. If we fail, it will mean misery and stagnation for millions of people in the region.
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