UN finalizes plans for future role in Angola; current office extended till mid-August

The United Nations is in the final stages of planning the future structure and the coordination mechanism of its future presence in Angola, according to an exchange of letters between Secretary-General Kofi Annan and the Security Council released today at UN Headquarters in New York.

In his letter, Mr. Annan informs the Council that an integrated assessment mission that went to Angola earlier this year has completed its work and its findings would form the basis of his next report to the Council. The assessment team was led by Ibrahim Gambari, Mr. Annan's Adviser for Special Assignments in Africa.

While the plans are being finalized, the mandate of the UN Office in the country (UNOA) has been extended for one month, until 15 August, following the Secretary-General's request.