PRESS STATEMENT ON GUINEA-BISSAU BY SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

PRESS STATEMENT ON GUINEA-BISSAU BY SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Following is today’s press statement by Security Council President, Emyr Jones Parry on Guinea-Bissau:

The Security Council, at its request, was briefed in informal consultations this afternoon, by Mr. Tuliameni Kalomoh, Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs on the developments that took place in Guinea-Bissau on 6 October 2004.

Members of the Council expressed concern over the tragic turn of events at a time when Guinea-Bissau is making steady progress towards the full restoration of constitutional order.

Members of the Council condemned the use of force to settle differences or address grievances regarding long-standing problems in the military sector.  They deplored the loss of life including, in particular, the killing of the Armed Forces Chief of Staff, General Verissimo Correia Seabra.

Members of the Council called on all concerned to come to a speedy agreement consistent with respect for constitutional authority and the rule of law.

Members of the Council called also on the international community to maintain its confidence in the process of democratic consolidation in Guinea-Bissau and to uphold their commitments to development in that country.

Members of the Council welcomed the readiness of the African Union, the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to provide support for the peaceful conclusion of dialogue among the parties.  They encouraged the Representative of the Secretary-General in Guinea-Bissau to maintain his assistance in this dialogue.

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