Annan recommends six-month extension of UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus

Secretary-General Kofi Annan has recommended a six-month extension in the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), according to a document released today at UN Headquarters in New York.

"Under the present circumstances, I consider the peacekeeping operation in Cyprus essential for the maintenance of the ceasefire on the island," Mr. Annan writes in a new report to the Security Council. He recommends that UNFICYP's mandate, which is set to expire in mid-December, be extended until 15 June 2002.

The situation along the ceasefire lines has been calm in recent months, according to the report. "Regrettably, no progress was made in removing the restrictions imposed by the Turkish Cypriot authorities and Turkish forces on UNFICYP or in restoring the status quo ante at Strovilia," the Secretary-General adds, referring to the situation in a small hamlet inhabited by Greek Cypriots.