Recent developments in Angola welcomed by UN Security Council

Members of the United Nations Security Council today welcomed recent political developments in Angola, including the "declaration" on the peace process made earlier this month by the Angolan Government.

In a statement to the press by the Council President, Ambassador Ole Peter Kolby of Norway, Council members at the same time voiced their concern at the difficult humanitarian situation prevailing in Angola.

Ambassador Kolby said a more substantial statement on the situation in Angola had been circulated to Council members for discussion, and would be presented for adoption in due course.

Council members also expressed support for an upcoming visit to Angola by Secretary-General Kofi Annan's Special Adviser on Africa, Ibrahim Gambari, who briefed the Council today.

Speaking to the Council meeting, Mr. Gambari said that the death of UNITA leader Jonas Savimbi in February had caused dramatic changes and opened up new opportunities, which must be seized.

Pointing to the Angolan Government’s 15-point peace plan, he said it was a very positive development. The plan, he said, included a cessation of hostilities; a commitment to implement the outstanding features of the Lusaka Protocol; a massive emergency programme of humanitarian assistance; distribution of relief material without discrimination; and a big programme of national reconstruction. Regarding the last issue, he said the assistance of the international community would be sought.