In progress at UNHQ

SG/SM/6802

SECRETARY-GENERAL, DISTURBED BY REPORTS FROM EAST TIMOR, CALLS FOR RESTRAINT BY ARMED FORCES, ARMED RESISTANCE

20 November 1998


Press Release
SG/SM/6802


SECRETARY-GENERAL, DISTURBED BY REPORTS FROM EAST TIMOR, CALLS FOR RESTRAINT BY ARMED FORCES, ARMED RESISTANCE

19981120 The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is seriously disturbed by reports of rising tensions and casualties involving civilians in certain areas of East Timor. The United Nations is trying to establish the veracity of these reports and to establish the facts.

In the meantime, the Secretary-General once again underlines the need for maintaining stability and peace in East Timor, so that the progress made in the negotiations conducted under his auspices can be sustained and a peaceful negotiated solution can be achieved. He calls for an end to military operations by all sides and for respect for the safety and security of unarmed civilians. He calls on the Indonesian armed forces and the East Timorese armed resistance to show maximum restraint in this regard.

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For information media. Not an official record.