PRESS STATEMENT ON CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC BY SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Following is the text of today’s statement to the press on the Central African Republic by Security Council President Wang Guangya (China):

Members of the Security Council heard a briefing by the Representative of the Secretary-General, General Lamine Cissé, on the situation in the Central African Republic after the first round of presidential and legislative elections held on 13 March 2005.  They reiterated their full support for the activities of the United Nations Peace-Building Office in the Central African Republic (BONUCA) and the sustained efforts of the Representative of the Secretary-General in this country.  They welcomed the assistance that international partners continue to provide to the Central African Republic, in particular for the electoral process.

Members of the Security Council unanimously welcomed the fact that the first round of presidential and legislative elections in the Central African Republic was held with respect for democratic values.  In particular, they noted with satisfaction that Central Africans have demonstrated responsibility at this occasion.

Members of the Security Council keenly encouraged all political and social parties in the Central African Republic to pursue their efforts.  They underlined that the second round of presidential and legislative elections, scheduled for 1 May, will be an important step which will mark the end of the transitional process and the restoration of rule of law in the Central African Republic.

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