PRESS STATEMENT ON ANGOLA BY PRESIDENT OF SECURITY COUNCIL

Following is the text of today’s statement on Angola by Richard Ryan (Ireland), President of the Security Council:

Council members received an extensive briefing from Under-Secretary-General Gambari on the work of the United Nations Office in Angola (UNOA).  They concurred with the Secretary-General’s recommendation that the mandate of the Office be extended for a further six months.

Council members remain deeply concerned at the continuing conflict in Angola.  They reiterated their position that the primary responsibility for the continued fighting lies with the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA).  They called on UNITA to end its military action and to enter into dialogue with the Government of Angola on how to conclude the implementation of the Lusaka Protocol.

Council members expressed deep concern about the humanitarian situation.  They asked that access to the at-risk population be granted to humanitarian workers.  They welcomed the initiatives by the Government and the Angolan people, together with the very important role of civil society and the churches to promote the peace process.  They welcomed Mr. Gambari’s announcement that he would visit Angola in November at the request of the Government of Angola for consultations with the Government, political parties and civil society representatives on how best the United Nations can help in the search for a negotiated peace in the country.  They called on the UNOA to prepare measurable objectives for the period ahead.

* *** *