Security Council extends mandate of UN mission in Timor-Leste by one year

A year after Timor-Leste gained independence, the Security Council today extended the mandate of the United Nations mission there for another 12 months, until 20 May 2004.

The unanimously adopted resolution on the UN Mission of Support in East Timor (UNMISET) recognized the importance of continued efforts by the UN operation to transfer skills and authority to the Timor-Leste government, and stressed that improving the overall capabilities of the country's police force was a key priority.

The resolution also welcomed the continuing progress in developing a positive bilateral relationship between the Governments of Timor-Leste and Indonesia, which the Council called "crucial" for the future stability of Timor-Leste.

The Mission, established last year to provide the fledgling nation with the stability necessary for growth and development, comprises international experts who help support the core administrative structures, train law enforcement officials and develop national defence capabilities.