PRESS STATEMENT ON GUINEA-BISSAU BY PRESIDENT OF SECURITY COUNCIL

Following is the text of today’s statement on the situation in Guinea-Bissau by Security Council President Richard Ryan (Ireland)

The members of the Council expressed their concern at recent developments in Guinea-Bissau and, in response to international appeals including by United Nations Secretary-General Annan, called on all institutions of government to engage in dialogue, to respect the constitution and to promote national reconciliation in order to find a way out of the current difficulties. 

The members of the Council welcomed the efforts of the Government of Guinea-Bissau to address the economic and social problems of the country.  Members took note of the recent memorandum from the Government of Guinea-Bissau.

The members of the Council encouraged the further implementation of the Programme of Demobilization, Reinsertion and Reintegration

The members of the Council called for an integrated and coordinated approach by the funds, programmes and agencies of the United Nations system –- including the Bretton Woods institutions -- as well as bilateral donors, to help Guinea-Bissau create income-generating capacity.  The need for technical and financial assistance for the judiciary was also acknowledged.

The members of the Council also acknowledged the need for strengthened dialogue with United Nations funds, programmes and agencies operating in and around Guinea-Bissau, to enhance coordination.  The members look forward to an assessment of this coordination in the next Secretary-General’s report.

The members of the Council recognized the continuing important role played by the United Nations Peace-building Support Office in Guinea-Bissau (UNOGBIS).

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