SECURITY COUNCIL PRESS STATEMENT ON TIMOR-LESTE

 

Following is the Security Council press statement on the situation on Timor-Leste, delivered today by Council President Basile Ikouebe ( Congo):

The members of the Security Council received a briefing on 24 May 2006 from the Department of Peacekeeping Operations on the serious incidents in Dili and other parts of Timor-Leste.

The members of the Security Council expressed their deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Timor-Leste and the resulting casualties.

The members of the Security Council appealed to all parties in Timor-Leste to put an end to the violence and to participate in the democratic process, respecting human rights and refraining from any intimidation.

The members of the Security Council took note of the letter addressed to the Secretary-General dated 24 May 2006 from the three leaders of Timor-Leste, President Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri and Speaker of the National Parliament Francisco Guterres “Lu-Olo”, in which they requested the Governments of Portugal, Australia, New Zealand and Malaysia to provide assistance by sending defence and security forces.

The members of the Council expressed their full understanding of the request, and appreciated the initial favourable responses made so far by the Governments concerned.

The members of the Security Council will continue to closely monitor the situation in Timor-Leste, and expressed their intention to take steps in that regard, as appropriate.

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For information media • not an official record