September 25, 2000
The Security Council will dispatch a mission to Sierra Leone early next month to look into ways of ensuring the full application of the Council's resolutions and enhancing the effectiveness of UNAMSIL, the United Nations Mission in the country, according to a letter released today at UN Headquarters in New York.
In the letter, Security Council President Moctar Ouane informs Secretary-General Kofi Annan that the delegation, whose composition is still under consideration, will visit Sierra Leone from 7 to 14 October.
In addition to providing support for UNAMSIL, the Council mission will back the efforts of the Sierra Leone Government and review with it the progress made in implementing the Lomé Peace Agreement.
According to the mission's terms of reference, the visit is also intended to "consider the regional dimensions of the crisis, including its humanitarian aspects, and what other measures the Council could envisage taking in this regard." In particular, that involves working with the leaders of the neighbouring States and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to promote a lasting solution to the conflict and foster closer cooperation between the UN and the region.
The Council mission will also follow up, "as appropriate," on Mr. Annan's report concerning the establishment of a special court for Sierra Leone, which was envisaged in the 14 August resolution by the Security Council.
