Security Council Press Statement on Afghanistan

 

Following is the Security Council press statement on Afghanistan delivered today by Council President John Danforth (United States):

The Security Council welcomed the certification by Afghanistan's Joint Electoral Management Body (JEMB) of Hamid Karzai as the winner of the presidential election in Afghanistan that took place on 9 October.

Council members recognized the historic importance of the first popular presidential election in Afghanistan's history, and gave credit to the JEMB, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), international security forces, neighbouring States, and especially to the people of Afghanistan for their role in ensuring the success of the electoral process.  They also noted with satisfaction that the other presidential candidates recognized the results of the elections.

Council members heard a briefing by Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Jean-Marie Guéhenno on the status of planning for the spring 2005 parliamentary, provincial and district elections, and expressed hope that those elections be carried out as peacefully and successfully as the presidential election.

In preparation for these elections, Council members reiterated their determination to continue to provide unwavering support to the Government of Afghanistan in the fight against narcotics and the reinforcement of security.  In particular, members welcomed Mr. Guéhenno’s report of increased progress with regard to the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of Afghan militias, and urged that this process be substantially completed in time for the 2005 elections.

* *** *