The Gambian Presidency

Introduction

The month of June was a very busy one for the Security Council. During this period, the Council renewed the mandates of United Nations operations in Sierra Leone, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Cyprus. The Council was also called upon to examine the situation in Angola, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bougainville (Papua New Guinea), the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cyprus, East Timor, Eritrea and Ethiopia, Guinea-Bissau, Iraq, Kosovo (Federal Republic of Yugoslavia), Somalia, Sierra Leone and Western Sahara. No open debate or briefing was held during the period but members deliberated on the humanitarian situation in Eritrea and Ethiopia, other parts of Africa and elsewhere, following a closed briefing by the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Serg i o Vieira de Mello in informal consultations. Members also held consultations on the implementation of resolutions 1196 (1998), 1197 (1998) and 1209 (1998), adopted pursuant to the Secretary-General's report on the causes of conflict and the promotion of durable peace and sustainable development in Africa, following a briefing by the Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Ibrahima Fall.

The Council adopted eight resolutions, on UNMIK, UNOMSIL, UNAMET, UNMIBH/the International Police Task Force, the Republic of Kiribati, the Republic of Nauru, Cyprus and UNFICYP. The Council approved the applications of Kiribati and Nauru for admission to membership in the United Nations and made the necessary recommendation to the General Assembly. The President also read out two statements on behalf of the Council, on East Timor and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The President of the Council met with the Secretary-General and the Presidents of the Economic and Social Council and the General Assembly. He also met the Chairmen of the various regional groups and a number of representatives of States which are not members of the Security Council. He was visited by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Kuwait as well as the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso and Guinea-Bissau. He also met with the head of the International Committee of the Red Cross in New York, the Director of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in New York, the Director of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in New York and the FAO representative in Iraq. Member states which are not members of the Council were briefed daily by the President's staff after the conclusion of informal consultations.

Africa

General

The members of the Council requested the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs to brief the Council on the humanitarian situation in Eritrea and Ethiopia, other parts of Africa and other areas. The briefing was held on 3 June 1999 by the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Sergio Vieira de Mello. He informed members that, while the eyes of the global media and the resources of major donors were focused on Kosovo, many other humanitarian crises had been running their terrible course — situations equally deserving of attention, where suffering was of a dimension not witnessed in several decades, yet where many of the victims remained largely unseen and unheard. He emphasized that the 40 million people in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America who had been forced to flee their homes as a result of armed conflict, internal strife and systematic violations of human rights should not be forgotten. He said that major crises were still faced by Sierra Leone, Angola, the Sudan, Somalia, the Great Lakes region of Africa, Eritrea and Ethiopia, Afghanistan and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, while humanitarian problems still persisted in Guinea-Bissau and certain countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States, including Tajikistan.

He indicated that in the efforts of the United Nations to address the humanitarian problems affecting over 20 million people in 13 countries and regions throughout the world, the three main areas of concern were funding, access and protection of civilians.

He reported a serious lack of funding for many essential humanitarian programmes proposed to the donors in the consolidated appeals. In some instances, funding was as low as 4 per cent. He indicated that while in many cases food aid may reach the hungry, other assistance needed to make a difference in the lives of the beneficiarie s was usually only partially funded. Lack of funding affected not only food needs but also such needs as seeds and farm tools, health programmes, emergency schooling for displaced children and activities for repatriation and reintegration of refugees. He indicated that while universal access to those in need is one of the cardinal humanitarian principles, in practice many potential beneficiaries must go without assistance because humanitarian agencies can not reach them. He asserted that while this was an inevitable consequence of violent conflict, in other cases access was arbit rarily denied for strategic, political or other reasons.

On violence against civilians and humanitarian workers, he lamented the fact that, despite the efforts of the international community to reinforce the protection of civilians in war through new legal instruments, the situation continued to be extremely precarious and had reached grotesque extremes in some places.

The members of the Council expressed their concern about the dramatic increase in refugees and internally displaced persons throughout the world. They encouraged donor response to United Nations consolidated appeals for humanitarian relief. They also emphasized the need for equal treatment of refugees and internally displaced pers ons throughout the world. The members agreed that humanitarian problems could not be adequately addressed unless the underlying causes were settled. They authorized the President to make a statement to the press following the meeting. On 15 June 1999, members were briefed by Assistant Secretary-General Ibrahima Fall on the implementation of the resolutions and statements adopted by the Council pursuant to the report of the Secretary-General on the causes of conflict and the promotion of durable peace and sustainable development in Africa.

The briefing concentrated mainly on peace and security issues highlighting the various activities undertaken by the Secretariat to implement the relevant resolutions of the Council including the activities of the High-level Workin g Group established under the leadership of the Deputy Secretary-General to coordinate the various activities. The briefing revealed that the Working Group had adopted a plan of action which indicated what needed to be done and by whom. The briefing highlighted various efforts to improve working linkages and strengthen cooperation and coordination between the United Nations and the Organization of African Unity. These include the establishment of a United Nations liaison office at OAU, the holding of annual meetings of the two organizations and the establishment of contacts at various levels.

On peacekeeping, the briefing revealed that high-level meetings had been held, including meetings of the two Secretaries-General. Among the issues considered during those meetings were strengthening Africa's capacity for peace-building and training packages for peacekeeping. Other assistance which the United Nations is providing to OAU was highlighted.

The various initiatives to combat the illicit circulation of arms were highlighted, principally the ECOWAS declaration of a moratorium on small arms and the campaign launched by the Lomé Centre for Peace.

The activities of the Secretariat on feasibility studies for the identification of arms dealers, establishment of data banks on the illicit flow of arms, strategies to rid refugee camps of combatants and programmes for weapons collection and destruction were also mentioned.

On sanctions, the briefing underscored the important activities of the sanctions committees in New York and in the field by their Chairmen. It also highlighted the activities of the Secretariat to assist the committees, including plans to fund the travel of Chairmen of sanctions committees to the field. The members of the Council acknowledged that much was being done to implement the various resolutions of the Council, but noted that much remained to be done. They expressed concern, in particula r, at violations of arms embargoes, the massive illicit flow of small arms and the introduction of heavy and sophisticated weaponry. They emphasized the need for greater cooperation and coordination between OAU and the United Nations. The members authorized the President to make a statement to the press following the meeting.

Angola

On 7 June, the members of the Council were briefed by Ambassador Robert Fowler of Canada in his capacity as Chairman of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 864 (1993). The briefing centred on his visit to the region. He submitted a report to the members in which he articulated his impressions and findings, and made recommendations on how to further strengthen the effectiveness of the existing sanctions.

It was noted that the situation in Angola continued to deteriorate. Notwithstanding the measures imposed against UNITA, it continued to have access to arms and sell diamonds in the diamond markets. It was recognized that efforts should be made to render the sanctions against UNITA more effective. It was emphasized that the expeditious setting up of the panels of experts established by resolution 1237 (1999) to investigate the violations of the measures imposed against UNITA would be in order. The report of the Chairman was referred to the Committee established pursuant to resolution 864 (1993) to consid er the recommendations. At the conclusion of the consultations, the President, on the authority of the Council, made a statement to the press (see below).

On 22 June, the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Bernard Miyet, briefed the members of the Council on his visit to Angola, at the request of the Secretary-General, on a possible United Nations presence in Angola as requested by the Security Council. The briefing revealed that the Government of Angola had yet to agree on a United Nations multidisciplinary presence in Angola. Instead, the Government was maintaining its position contained in its memorandum to the Secretary-General of 10 March 1999. It is however considering the pres ence of a United Nations "antenna" in Angola.

The briefing also touched on the military situation which was characterized by continued heavy fighting. The Government controls the provincial capitals, with UNITA controlling much of the area, including the central highlands. UNITA continues to threaten oil-producing areas and keeps driving the populatio n to Government-held areas. On the political front, it was learned that the Government was still pursuing its policy of isolating UNITA. The Under-Secretary-General also mentioned that questions were being raised about the credibility of UNITA Renovada and was being accused of spying for UNITA.

Concerns were raised regarding attacks on humanitarian convoys, ambushes and obstructions of vaccination programmes, blamed on UNITA. Questions were raised with regard to access to the crash sites of United Nations and other aircraft downed in Angolan territory and the fate of the crew of a Russian aircraft captured in Angola.

The members of the Council emphasized the importance o f having a multi disciplinary United Nations presence in A ngola and the benefits such a presence could bri n g t o Angola. They also lamented the deteriorating situation and the obstruction of the delivery of humanitarian assistance, emphasizing strongly the need for unimpeded humanitarian access.

Central African Republic

On 3 June 1999, the members of the Council considered the sixth report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Mission in the Central African Republic (S/1999/621) and were briefed by the Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Hédi Annabi. The briefing mainly concerned developments in the political and military situation, but also extended to the socio-economic and security reforms in the country and the preparations being made and the requirements for the presidential elections scheduled for 5 September 1999. The members of the Council noted the progress made in several areas during the period under review and welcomed the measures taken to reform the armed forces and to promote economic and social reforms. They also called for the signing of the necessary legislation on reform of the armed forces. With regard to the electoral process, the members commended the authorities of the Central African Republic and the Mixed and Independent Electoral Commission for the progress made towards the presidential elections and having set a date for it. The members however noted that financial and material support would be needed and urged the donor community to provide such support.

Members noted the continuing problems with regard to revenue generation and payment of salaries. They accordingly urged the Government to continue to take concrete steps to ensure that measures are taken to improve revenue generation and address the issue of salary areas. At the end of the consultation, the President was authorized to make a statement to the press.

Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Democratic Republic of the Congo peace process, Moustapha Niasse, briefed the members on 21 June 1999, following his visit to the region. He provided an analysis of the proliferation of the problems compounding the complexity of the conflict. He also informed members of the progress made in the Lusaka process and the possibility that a ceasefire agreement could be signed by the parties at the planned summit in Lusaka on 26 June.

He however opined that, notwithstanding a ceasefire agreement, the complexity of the s ituation was such that, among other things, the internal dimension of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo must be addressed, as well as the concerns of the neighbouring States, if there was to be a peaceful and lasting settlement of the conflict. The analysis of the situation during the briefing gave the members a better understanding of the complexity of the conflict. The members agreed to state their position in a presidential statement later in the week. They also authorized the President to make a statement to the press if asked, informing them of their intention as well as expressing their concern about the situation and their hope for a successful outcome of the planned summit in Lusaka. The President made the statement to the press after the consultations were adjourned.

On 24 June 1999, the Council issued a presidential statement which was read out by the President during the 4015th meeting of the Council (S/PRST/1999/17). In the statement, the Council reaffirmed its support for the regional mediation process facilitated by the President of Zambia on behalf of SADC in cooperation with OAU; took note of the constructive efforts being made to promote a peaceful settlement of the conflict, including the meeting and agreement signed at Sirte, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, on 18 April 1999; called on all parties to demonstrate commitment to the peace process and to participate in the summit in Lusaka scheduled for 26 June 1999; and to sign a ceasefire agreement with appropriate modalities for implementation; reaffirmed its readiness to consider the active involvement of the United Nations, in coord ination with OAU, to assist in the implementation of an effective ceasefire agreement; stressed the need for a continuing process of genuine national reconciliation and democratization in all States in the Great Lakes region; reaffirmed the importance of holding, at the appropriate time, an international conference on security, stability and development for the Great Lakes region; and expressed appreciation and full support for the efforts of the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy for the peace process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Eritrea and Ethiopia

On 3 June 1999, member s were briefed by the Under-Secretary- General for Humanitarian Affairs Sergio Vieira de Mello, on the humanitarian situation in Eritrea and Ethiopia, other parts of Africa and other areas. With regard to the humanitarian situation in Eritrea and Ethiopia, the concern of the members was raised with regard to the lack of access by humanitarian organizations to those in need. It was noted that access was granted to ICRC to visit prisoners of war in Ethiopia, whereas no such access was granted with regard to those in Eritrea. The members authorized the President to make a statement to the press reflecting the views of the members on the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Africa and other parts of the world.

On 23 June, members were briefed by Assistant Secretary-General Ibrahima Fall on developments on the situation between Eritrea and Ethiopia, focusing mainly on the military and political situations, including the diplomatic initiatives in which the United Nations was participating. The briefing highlighted the constant clashes between the parties and the claims and counterclaims by the parties of losses inflicted on each other and gains made. The briefing also highlighted reports of the expansion of the theatre of the conflict to neighbouring Somalia. The members were informed of unconfirmed reports of allegations that the Somali factions were receiving material support in terms of arms or training from Eritrea and Ethiopia. The members of the Council deplored the continuation of the hostilities despite the pronouncements of the Council in resolution 1227 (1999) and demanded that both parties immediately and unconditionally agree to a ceasefire. They reaffirmed that the OAU Framework Agreement remained a viable and sound basis for a peaceful settlement of the conflict. They reaffirmed their full support for the OAU efforts and encouraged it to intensify those efforts, while calling on the parties to cooperate fully and constructively with the high-level delegation of OAU to implement the Framework Agreement.

The briefing brought to the forefront the serious humanitarian crisis developing in both countries as a consequence of the conflict and the recent drought. The Council noted with concern that half a million internally displaced persons and several million people were facing serious drought in both countries. The two Governments were reminded of their primary responsibility to feed their peoples. Recalling the provisions of resolution 1227 (1999), the members strongly urged all States to halt immediately the sale of arms and munitions to Eritrea and Ethiopia. The members requested both countries to grant humanitarian access to areas of military conflict; and to permit the provision of assistance to the local population. The members recognized that, with the expected worsening of weather conditions in both countries, people in camps for displaced persons would face serious health conditions and the food situation could become critical. The members requested donor countries to make available emergency relief assistance in coordination with the United Nations to help alleviate the plight of the ordinary citizens of both Ethiopia and Eritrea. The President was authorized to make a statement reflecting the position of the Council (see below). Members expressed frustration at the propaganda the parties were engaged in. The President was requested to call in the Permanent Representatives of the two countries to address this issue.

Guinea-Bissau

On 7 June 1999, members were informe d by the Permanent Representative of France that the former President of Guinea-Bissau had been able to safely leave the territory of Guinea-Bissau following the good offices mission of the President of the Gambia, Yahya A. J. J. Jamme h, and its Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Momodou Lamin Sedat Jobe. The members of the Council expressed their thanks to the Gambian authorities for their efforts in securing a solution in conformity with the wishes of the Council expressed earlier. The members authorized the President to make a statement to the press following the meeting.

Sierra Leone

On 10 June 1999, members of the Council were briefed b y Assistant Secretary-General Annabi on the situatio n in Sierra Leone. The briefing supplemented the sixth report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Observer Mission in Sierra Leone (S/1999/645). Members of the Council noted the ceas efire agreement signed by the parties on 18 May 1999, paving the way for the opening of talks between the Government and the Revolutionary United Front/Armed Forces Revolutionary Council which were being held in Lomé. The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sierra Leon, Francis Okelo, was facilitating the talks. The briefing revealed that the United Nations High Commissioner fo r Human Rights, Mary Robinson, was planning a visit to Sierra Leone at the invitation of the Government to examine the situation on the grou nd and to make tangible commitments regardin g the prevention of abuses and accountability of perpetrators. It was also highlighted that President Kabbah proposed to establish a natio nal human rights commission in Sierra Leone as well as a truth and reconciliation mechanism as part of the peace agreement. ECOMOG was also said to have established a civil-military relations committee to investigate allegations of human rights violations by pro-Government forces.

On the talks in Lomé, it was revealed that progress was being made. There were however some areas of difficulty, including the departure of ECOMOG, the status of the 1991 constitution, power sharing and the transitional period, as well as amnesty for the rebels. The members of the Council expressed optimis m regarding the talks and encouraged the parties to reach a peace agreement. They also welcomed the planned trip of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to the country as well as the planned establishment by the Government of a national human rights commission and a truth and reconciliation commission and a civil-military relations committee by ECOMOG.

Members considered the recommendations of the Secretary-General contained in the report. A draft resolution tabled for discussion on 9 June 1999 was also considered. The draft resolution was adopted on 11 June 1999, at the 4012th meeting of the Council, as resolution 1245 (1999) (see appendix V).

Somalia

The Council held its monthly discussion of the situation in Somalia after a briefing by Assistant Secretary-General Ibrahima Fall, on 24 June 1999. The briefing revealed continued fighting by various factions, unconfirmed reports of provision of arms and matériel to the factions by Ethiopia and Eritrea, the deteriorating humanitarian situation and lack of humanitarian access. The activities of the United Nations and IGAD to revitalize the peace process were also considered. In support of a proposal by the delegation of Malaysia, the members noted the need (a) to revitalize the process and get out of the "Somalia syndrome" and re-engage the subject; (b) to review the United Nations strategy towards Somalia; and (c) to review the current bottom-up (building blocks) approach, which is not working. At the conclusion of the discussions the members requested the Secretariat to submit a report considering the salient issues arising out of the discussion, in particular, proposals regarding a new United Nations strategy towards Somalia articulating a reinvigorated role for the United Nations.

Western Sahara

On 29 June 1999, the members of the Council considered the report of the Secretary-General on the situation concerning Western Sahara (S/1999/721) and heard a briefing by the Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Bernard Miyet. The briefing highlighted the progress being made on numerous fronts, including the resumption of the identification process, removal of mines and unexploded ordnance and preparations for the appeals process and repatriation of refugees by UNHCR. Although members welcomed the positive developments, some expressed the need for cautious optimism in view of the long history of this issue. The members authorized the President to make a statement to the press (see below).

Asia and the Middle East

Iraq

On 1 June 1999, emergency informal consultations were convened at the request of the Russian Federation, during which members were informed of the existence of dangerous poisonous substances in the laboratory of the Special Commission at the Canal Hotel in Baghdad. It was revealed that those substances had been left unattended since the Special Commission left Iraq in December 1998. The premises referred to also house staff of the humanitarian programme in Iraq. The Spe cial Commission and the Secretariat were requested to provide information on this issue.

Ambassador Richard Butler, Chairman of the Special Commission, who was present at the consultations, informed members that the samples of biological and chemical substances in the Special Commission laboratory were not left in a dangerous state. He said that there were small quantities of chemical warfare agents used for calibrating Special Commission machines. He reassured members that there was nothing to worry about as there was no danger created and that the Commission's intentions were innocent and their conduct was routine.

At the conclusion of the consultations, members reconfirmed their request for further information from the Secretariat. It was also suggested that the Special Commission provide a written report on the issue. The Secretary-General was also requested to investigate the matter and submit a report as soon as possible. Some suggested that the investigation should be conducted in the presence of members of the diplomatic community in Baghdad.

On 3 June 1999, the Chef de Cabinet, Iqbal Riza, briefed the members on this subject. His briefing centred mainly on the various arrangements being considered together with Hans Sponeck and the Special Commission for possible entry into the Special Commission offices for the removal of the substances concerned. He indicated that the Secretariat would not at that stage submit a report on the subject as it had nothing to say over and above what had already been stated by itself and the Special Commission. It was agreed that the Secretariat would put together a team to handle the issue and to keep the members informed, as was already planned. On 10 June 1999, members received the report of the Executive Chairman of the Special Commission on the issue. On 28 June 1999, the delegation of the United Kingdom introduced, on behalf of the sponsors, a draft resolution on Iraq, seeking to re-establish a United Nations presence in Iraq by creating a new commission with the mandate to continue the disarmament and monitoring tasks in Iraq and to put in place new measures to implement some of the recommendations of the Iraqi panels. The draft attracted the support of some members of the Council. Others were against it. The Russian Federation reintroduced a draft resolution on the subject on behalf of China, France, and the Russian Federation. France also introduced a working paper on the subject.

The debate on the various draft resolutions introduced for consideration by the members reflected the deep divisions in the Council. By the same token, it also reflected some common understandings which may be summarized as follows:

(a) The status quo of no weapons inspections is unacceptable;
(b) The dire humanitarian situation should be addressed;
(c) Adequate mechanisms to deal with the issue of prisoners of war and missing Kuwaiti and third country nationals and archives should be devised;
(d) Iraq should be engaged to accept the new mechanisms that may be devised.

The main differences in the Council lie in the modalities and mechanisms for achieving the above-mentioned common understandings.

The members agreed to continue consultations on this subject in order to narrow the differences. The most prominent differences include (a) the scope of suspension of sanctions and the trigger mechanism for the suspension; (b) the financial control arrangements; (c) production-sharing arrangements; and (d) the new disarmament regime. Members agreed that there should be increased bilateral consultations, in particular among the five permanent members, with a view to forging a consensus on the overall Iraqi file.

Lebanon

On 2 June 1999, the members of the Council were informed of an incident involving the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. The briefing revealed that a mortar round fired from a position of the Isra eli Defence Forces/de facto forces, at about 0500 hours on 31 May 1999 impacte d a t a United Nations position located on the edge of Brashit, while another round impacted 15 metres from the position. An Irish soldier was said to have been killed and two others wounded. Members were also informed that just befo re the incident, armed elements fired three mortar rounds at the Israeli Defence Forces/de facto forces position. Their location was said to be about 1 kilometre away from the United Nations position. A note verbale by the Secretary-General dated 1 June 1999 was circulated to all the members. The note contained information about the incident and the Secretary-General's condemnation of the attack against United Nations personnel and call for the respect of the non-combatant status of the United Nations.

The members of the Council condemned the attack against United Nations personnel and called upon the Government of Israel to take all necessary measures to ensure t hat the Israeli Defence Forces and their local Lebane s e auxiliary would respect the non-combatant status of UNIFIL. They also expressed their condolences to the family of the Irish soldier who was killed and wished the injured soldiers speedy recovery. At the end of the meeting, the President was asked to make a statement to the press reflecting the views of the members.

On 25 June 1999, among other matters, the members of the Council were briefed by the Secretariat on the escalation of tensions in the Israel-Lebanon sector, which has affected civilians as well as UNIFIL. The members of the Council called upon both sides to cease hostilities and respect the resolutions of the Security Council, including resolution 425 (1978). They also called upon both sides to cooperate with UNIFIL and the Israel-Lebanon Monitoring Group in containing the conflict. statement to the press along the same lines.

Question of Palestine

The President of the Security Council received two letters from the Permanent Observer of Palestine to the United Nations dated 3 and 4 June 1999. The letters raised the issue of illegal expansion of settlements by Israel and the participation of Palestine in the meetings of the Security Council, respectively. The letters were discussed by members on 4 June, among other matters. On the issue of settlements, the members agreed that, owing to recent political developments in Israel, the time was not propitious to engage the issue. On the issue of the participation of Palestine in the work of the Council, the members agreed to defer consideration of the subject.

Europe

Bosnia and Herzegovina

On 17 June, the members of the Council considered the report of the Secretary-General of 11 June 1999 on the United Nations Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (S/1999/670), and heard a briefing by Assistant Secretary-General Annabi on the situation there. During the briefing, the Assistant Secretary-General informed the members of the recommendation of the Secretary-General, contained in his report, to extend the ma n d a t e o f UNMIBH for one year with the same mandate and strength. He indicated that, on the assessment of the Secretariat, the current mandate provided a solid base and strength for carrying out the relevant tasks. He indicated that an extension of the mandate would be a sign of the United Nations continued commitment to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The briefing further dwelled on the effects on Bosnia and Herzegovina of the NATO bombing of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The various activities of UNMIBH since the last report were mentioned, in particular, establishment of the rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina by reforming and restructuring the police and assessing the other institutions and agencies involved in the maintenance of law and order. The members of the Council expressed their support for the Mission. They emphasized that there were still key tasks to be done and the situation was still fragile. They expressed concern at the disappointing rate of refugee minority returns. A draft resolution for the extension of the mandate of UNMIBH was considered during the discussion. On 18 June 1999, at the 4014th meeting, the Security Council adopted the draft resolution as resolution 1247 (1999), by which it extended the mandate of UNMIBH, including the International Police Task Force, for an additional period terminating on 21 June 2000. It also authorized member States, acting through or in cooperation with the organization referred to in annex 1-A of the Peace Agreement, to continue the multinational stabilization force for a further planned period of 12 months.

Cyprus

On 24 June 1999, the members of the Council considered the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nation s operations in Cyprus (S/1999/657) and his report on his mission of good offices (S/1999/707). In his report on UNFICYP, the Secretary-General noted that the situation along the ceasefire line had remained stable for the past six months. He indicated that UNFICYP continued to use its best efforts to maintain the ceasefire by maintaining the United Nations buffer zone between the ceasefire lines and responding quickly to incidents. He also recommended the extension of the mandate of the Force for a further period of six months.

The members of the Council noted that, in spite of the tension and disputes, there had been relative calm along the ceasefire lines and no resumption of hostilities. They stressed the need for cautious optimism as there were s till acts of provocation, and noted that the presence of UNFICYP was indispensable for the stability of the island. The members noted with appreciation the willingness of the Secretary-General to take up comprehe nsive negotiations. They expressed the hope that the shuttle talks and the Secretary-General's mission of good offices would produce results. On 29 June 1999, the Council adopted two resolutions on the subject. In the first, resolution 1250 (1999), the members expressed their appreciation and support for the Secretary-General's mission of good offices, requested the Secretary-General to invite the leaders of the two sides to negotiations in the autumn of 1999 and called upon the two leaders to commit themselves to the principles of no preconditions, all issues on the table, commitment in good faith to continue to negotiate until a settlement is reached and full consideration o f relevant United Nations resolutions and treaties. By t h e second resolution, 1251 (1999), the Council extended the mandate of UNFICYP for a further period of six months.

Kosovo, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia

On 2 June 1999, the members of the Council were briefed by the Secretary-General and the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs on developments in the political front on the Kosovo is sue and the findings of the Inter-Agency Humanitarian Needs Assessment Mission, respectively. The Under-Secretary-General described the humanitarian situation in and around Kosovo, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, as very serious. He indicated that in the villages the Mission visited there were clear signs that the inhabitants had fled the area in a hurry. He indicated that many villages were empty of their ethnic Albanian inhabitants. He stressed that the findings of the Mission and other accounts were consistent with reports of looting, burning of houses, expulsion of ethnic Albanians, rape, etc. He indicated that those activities appeared to have been systematically organized.

The Under-Secretary-General emphasized the urgent and immense need for humanitarian assistance in particular to the internally displa ced persons and refugees. He also raised concern about the situation of the Serb refugees in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia . Finally, he recommended to the Council that:

(a) The political situation should be addresse d immediately, otherwise the humanitarian situation would deteriorate dramatically;
(b) Access to those in need and the safety of the humanitarian personnel was inevitable and vital;
(c) There should be a strong and credible international presence in Kosovo in order to create an environment conducive to the return of refugees.

He made a strong appeal to members of the Council to exercise their influence so that a political settlement could be found. The members of the Council expressed concern at the humanitarian catastrophe in and around Kosovo, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, as a result of the continuing crisis. They emphasized the need for urgent humanitarian assistance to all those in need of assistance in and around Kosovo, those in neighbou ring countries as well as Serb refugees in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. While encouraging UNHCR and other humanitarian agencies to continue their efforts, they underlined the need for greater access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and called for access for United Nations and other humanitarian personnel operating in Kosovo and other parts of the Federal Rep ublic of Yugoslavia. The members expressed concern at the fate of two CARE Australia workers who had been tried and convicted in Belgrade and urged their immediate release. They reaffirmed the right of all refu gees and internally displaced persons to return to their homes in safety and dignity.

The members of the Council reiterated their firm belief that the humanitarian situation would continue to deteriorate in the absence of a political settlement consistent with the G-8 principles. They encouraged the Secretary-General to continue his efforts and urged all concerned to make determined efforts for the expeditious settlement of the crisis. The members authorized the President to make a statement to the press along the lines of the discussion.

On 9 June, Carl Bildt and Eduard Kukan, Special Envoys of the Secretary-General to the Balkans, briefed the Council on the situation in Kosovo, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The two Special Envoys informed members of the serious humanitarian situation in Kosovo, where there was massive destruction of housing and economic life, with 90 per cent of the population displaced. They expressed concern that very challenging tasks lay ahead in dealing with the problems in and around Kosovo. They indicated that everything had to be put back in place and lamented the problems that landmines, unexploded ordnance and booby traps would pose for humanitarian efforts. They also offered analysis of what the United Nations should do to addre ss the multiplicity of problems in Kosovo in the event of a political settlement to the crisis. They also indicated that the United Nations should start preparing for the tasks that lay ahead.

The members of the Council welcomed the appointment by the Secretary-General of his two Special Envoys. They applauded the Secretary-General's good offices and welcomed the important role being played by the United Nations. On 10 June 1999, the President of the Council informed the members of a letter he had received from the Secretary-General conveying a letter from the Secretary-General of NATO reporting that NATO military authorities had agreed with the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia on the procedures and modalities for the withdrawal from Kosovo of Federal Republic of Yugoslavia security forces. It also confirmed that the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia security forces had begun to withdraw from Kosovo in accordance with the agreed procedures and modalities and that NATO operations against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia had been suspended.

This paved the way for the Council to consider a draft resolution introduced on 8 June 1999 by the representative of the Netherlands on behalf of the sponsors. At its 4011th meeting, on 10 June 1999, the Council adopted the draft resolution as resolution 1244 (1999) (see appendix V). On 17 June 1999, the members of the Council were briefed by the Deputy Secretary-General on the meetings held at Geneva by the United Nations, the European Union, NATO and OSCE regarding the apportionment of the various tasks to be carried out in Kosovo, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, to implement resolution 1244 (1999). The members of the Council expressed their support for the concept of operations and the organizational chart presented to them. They emphasized the need for close coordination between the civilian and military presence. The members also stressed the need for the demilitarization of the Kosovo Liberation Army in order to avoid a new wave of refugees.

The Pacific region

Bougainville, Papua New Guinea

On 25 June 1999, the members were briefed by Noel Sinclair, the Director of the United Nations Political Office in Bougainville (UNPOB), who touched on the major developments and their implications for the role of the Office. He informed the members that the deadline for the holding of free and fair elections on Bougainville to elect a Bougainville Reconciliation Government could not be met. However, a Bougainville People's Congress was established to negotiate with the natio nal Government on the powers, functions, structure and status of a future Bougainville government. With the creation of the People's Congress, factions no longer existed and Bougainvilleans were now organized into one entity which would be the vehicle for their negotiations with the national Government on the future relations between the two sides.

Another important development mentioned was the preparation of a weapons disposal plan, in which UNPOB was to take a leadership role. It was expected that the plan would be adopted in July and that implementation would commence by August or September, if the political climate was right. Relations between UNPOB and the Peace Monitoring Group were described as excellent. Consultations between them were held regularly, six days a week. UNPOB was also said to have had significant outreach to the Bougainvillean community by participating in community events.

The question how much longer UNPOB should be present in Bougainville was raised, as well as the unsustainability of an open-ended presence. Members were informed that the negotiations between the two sides would be affected by the outcome of the expected motion of no confidence against the Government. Mr. Sinclair stressed that what happened in Port Moresby within the coming weeks could be critical for the maintenance of the political advance so far achieved on the island.

The members of the Council agreed that UNPOB should not have an open-ended presence, which was not sustainable. The members agreed that its withdrawal should be properly c alibrated so as to ensure that the withdrawal did n o t contribute to creating the kind of situation which had made the UNPOB presence there necessary in the first place. The members noted with appreciation the remarkable success of the UNPOB operation, although some members signalled the need for caution. On the weapons disposal programme, the members agreed that it was a good thing, as the proliferation of arms was destabilizing the island.

East Timor

On 10 June 1999, the members were briefed by the Under-Secretary- General for Political Affairs, Kieran Prendergast, on the United Nations Mission in East Timor. The briefing highlighted the efforts of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the East Timor Popular Consultation, Ian Martin, the security situation on the ground and the efforts of the United Nations to deploy the necessary staff within a limited time frame.

The members were informed of the various meetings held by the Secretary-General's Special Representative with the Indonesian authorities, including the Foreign Minister, Ali Alatas, and the Defence Minister, General Wiranto, as well as Xanana Gusmao. Members were informed that the meetings were fruitful and the parties pledged their support and cooperation.

On the security situation on the ground, the members were informed that, since the opening of the United Nations Headquarters in Dili, there had been a marked improvement in the security situation, although tensions and intimidation continued. The security situation in East Timor as a whole was characterized as worrisome and remained a serious impediment to a credible and fair consultation process. The reports he mentioned indicated that a climate of violence and intimidation pervaded many areas outside Dili. Members were informed that in many areas the pro-integration militias, which had been a primary source of recent violence, continued to operate with impunity with the apparent aim of ensuring that the populace in their areas voted for autonomy. The Under-Secretary-General emphasized the need for the expeditious normalization of the securit y situation in order to create a conducive environment for the consultation process.

On the deployment of United Nations personnel, the Under-Secretary-General informed members that considerable progress had been made to deploy some staff in a short period. He informed members that electoral planning and the deployment of electoral officers had progressed considerably. An advance team of United Nations Civilian Police was already heading for Dili while the deployment of international staff was progressing rapidly.

After the briefing, the Council considered a draft resolution on the establishment of UNAMET. During informal consultations on 11 June 1999, the members expressed concern at the security situation and the need for cooperation between the United Nations and the Government of Indonesia. On the same day, at the 4013th meeting, the members of the Council adopted the draft resolution unanimously, as resolution 1246 (1999) (see appendix V).

On 16 June 1999, members were briefed by the Personal Representative of the Secretary-General for East Timor, Jamsheed Marker, who informed members of the good c ooperation of the Government of Indonesia an d t h e Government task force established to liaise with UNAMET. He however expressed concern at the security situation which he said had improved only in Dili. The pro-autonomy militia were reported to be very active in the western part of the island and to be intimidating people there. The fate of the internally displaced persons who needed humanitarian assistance was also mentioned. He informed members that the security situation must improve to a level conducive to the holding of the consultation process before registration could commence. On the deployment of UNAMET, he indicated that progress was being made in this regard although there were difficulties which the Secretariat was in the process of addressing.

The members of the Council expressed their full support for the efforts of UNAMET and Ambassador Marker. They emphasized the need for improvements in the security situation, a necessary condition for holding the consultation process. They noted that the responsibility for ensuring a secure environment for the consultation process lay with the Government of Indonesia, and emphasized the need for the Indonesian authorities to disarm the militias. At the end of the consultation, the members authorized the President to make a statement to the press along the lines of the discussion. On 25 June 1999, members considered the report of the Secretary-General (S/1999/705) and were briefed by the Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Alvaro de Soto. The briefing highlighted the progress being made in the deployment of UNAMET and the good cooperation of the Indonesian Government. Mr. de Soto however expressed concern at the precarious security situation and the activities of the pro-autonomy militia. He also expressed concern at the fate of the internally displaced persons who should also participate in the consultation process. He indicated the possibility of a two-week delay in the process. The members of the Council expressed their understanding for the delay in the process which was due to security reasons. They expressed their concern at reports of the precarious security situation and the plight of the internally displaced persons. They commended the Government of Indonesia for its cooperation in the process but lamented the allegations of partiality against UNAMET.

On 29 June 1999, members were briefed by the Assistant Secretary-General on an attack on the Maliana regional office of UNAMET. He informed the members that approximately 100 persons, reportedly pro-autonomy militia members, threw rocks and stones at the office while UNAMET staff and local East Timorese took refuge there. He mentioned that several people were seriously injured including one UNAMET staff member. He also informed members that the Secretary-General's Personal Representative for East Timor and his Special Representative for the Popular Consultation had protested about the attack to the Indonesian Government.

The members of the Council agreed to issue a statement by the President of the Council expressing the position of the Council on this issue. On 29 June 1999, at the 4019th meeting, the President read out a statement on behalf of the members of the Council (S/PRST/1999/20), in which the Council emphasized that the popular consultation represented a historic opportunity to resolve the question of East Timor peacefully; expressed concern that the necessary conditions did not yet exist to begin the opera tional phase of the consultation process; stressed the need for all sides to put an end to all violence and exercise restraint; and expressed grave concern at the attack on the UNAMET office in Maliana. The Council also demanded an investigation into the incident and that the perpetrators be brought to justice.

Republic of Kiribati

On 25 June 1999, the President of the Council brought to the attention of the members of the Council the report of the Committee on the Admission of New Members. Later that day, at the 4016th meeting, the Council unanimously adopted resolution 1248 (1999), by which the Council recommended to the General Assembly the admission of the Republic of Kiribati to membership in the United Nations.

Republic of Nauru

On 25 June 1999, the President of the Council brought to the attention of the members of the Council the report of the Committee on the admission of new members. Later that day, at the 4017th meeting, the Council adopted resolution 1249 (1999), by which the Council recommended to the General Assembly the admission of the Republic of Nauru to membership in the United Nations.