Adopted by the Security Council at its 3499th meeting, on 8
February 1995
The Security Council,
Reaffirming its resolution 696 (1991) of 30 May 1991 and all
subsequent relevant resolutions,
Having considered the report of the Secretary-General dated
1 February 1995 (S/1995/97 and Add.1),
Reaffirming its commitment to preserve the unity and territorial
integrity of Angola,
Welcoming the signing of the Lusaka Protocol of 20 November
1994 (S/1994/1441, annex) as a major step towards the establishment
of peace and stability in Angola,
Reiterating the importance it attaches to the full implementation
of the "Acordos de Paz" (S/22609, annex), the Lusaka
Protocol and relevant Security Council resolutions,
Noting the schedule for implementation set forth in the
Lusaka Protocol, in particular the need for the Government of
Angola and UNITA to provide all relevant military data to the
United Nations, to allow freedom of movement and free circulation
of goods, and to begin limited disengagement where forces are
in contact,
Welcoming the maintenance of a cease-fire which has been
generally holding,
Welcoming also the progress made in meetings of the Angolan
Armed Forces and UNITA Chiefs of Staff on 10 January 1995 in Chipipa
and on 2 to 3 February 1995 in Waco Kungo,
Further welcoming the deployment of United Nations Angola
Verification Mission (UNAVEM II) observer forces, and the contributions
of Member States to this mission,
Welcoming the offer from the Government of Angola to provide
substantial contributions in-kind to United Nations peace-keeping
operations in Angola as set out in "Costs of the Implementation
of the Lusaka Protocol" (S/1994/1451),
Deeply concerned that the implementation of the Lusaka
Protocol has fallen behind schedule,
Stressing the need for the President of Angola, Mr. Jose
Eduardo dos Santos, and the leader of UNITA, Dr. Jonas Savimbi,
to meet without delay with a view to building the necessary political
momentum for the successful implementation of the Lusaka Protocol,
Welcoming the Ministerial delegation of the Organization
of African Unity (OAU) to the Security Council to participate
in its consideration of the situation in Angola,
1. Authorizes the establishment of a peace-keeping operation,
UNAVEM III to assist the parties in restoring peace and achieving
national reconciliation in Angola on the basis of the "Acordos
de Paz", the Lusaka Protocol and relevant Security Council
resolutions, as outlined in part IV of the report of the Secretary-General
dated 1 February 1995, with an initial mandate until 8 August
1995 and with a maximum deployment of 7,000 military personnel,
in addition to the 350 military observers and 260 police observers
mentioned in the Secretary-General's report, with an appropriate
number of international and local staff;
2. Urges the expeditious deployment of the military and
police observers to monitor the cease-fire;
3. Authorizes the immediate deployment of such planning
and support elements as are needed to prepare for the deployment
of peace-keeping forces provided that the Secretary-General remains
satisfied that an effective cease- fire and effective joint cease-fire
monitoring mechanisms are in place, and that both parties are
allowing the free and safe flow of humanitarian assistance throughout
the country, and authorizes the subsequent deployment of such
additional elements as are necessary to establish operational
quartering areas for UNITA forces;
4. Decides that the deployment of infantry units will take
place on the basis of a report from the Secretary-General to the
Security Council that the conditions contained in paragraph 32
of the Secretary-General's report, inter alia, effective cessation
of hostilities, provision of all relevant military data, and designation
of all quartering areas, have been met, provided the Council does
not decide otherwise;
5. Stresses the importance it attaches to the expeditious
establishment of a well-coordinated and comprehensive mine clearance
programme in Angola as set out in the Secretary- General's report
dated 1 February 1995, and requests him to inform the Council
of progress in its implementation;
6. Endorses the Secretary-General's view set out in his
report (S/1995/97 and Add.1) as to the need for UNAVEM III to
have an effective information capability, including a United Nations
radio station to be established in consultation with the Government
of Angola;
7. Requests the Secretary-General to inform the Council
monthly of progress in the deployment of UNAVEM III and in implementation
of the Lusaka Protocol, including the maintenance of an effective
cease-fire, free access by UNAVEM III to all areas of Angola,
free flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Angola and compliance
by both the Government of Angola and by UNITA with their obligations
under the Lusaka Protocol, and further requests the Secretary-
General to submit to the Council a complete report by 15 July
1995;
8. Welcomes the Secretary-General's intention to include
human rights specialists in the political component of UNAVEM
III to observe the implementation of the provisions related to
national reconciliation;
9. Expresses its intention to review the role of the United
Nations in Angola should the Secretary-General report that the
cooperation required from the parties is substantially delayed
or not forthcoming;
10. Declares its intention to conclude the mission of UNAVEM
III when the objectives of the Lusaka Protocol have been achieved
in accordance with the schedule attached to the Lusaka Protocol
and with the expectation of its completion by February 1997;
11. Welcomes the substantial contributions of the Member
States, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations
to meet the humanitarian needs of the Angolan people and encourages
additional substantial contributions;
12. Reaffirms the obligation of all States to implement
fully the provisions of paragraph 19 of resolution 864 (1993),
and calls upon the Government of Angola and UNITA during UNAVEM
III's presence in Angola to cease any acquisition of arms and
war materiel, as agreed upon in the "Acordos de Paz",
and to devote their resources instead to priority humanitarian
and social needs;
13. Calls upon the Government of Angola to conclude no
later than 20 March 1995 an agreement with the United Nations
on the Status of Forces;
14. Encourages the Secretary-General to pursue urgently
the offer of direct assistance by the Government of Angola to
UNAVEM III, to reflect this as appropriate in the Status of Forces
Agreement referred to in paragraph 13 above, and to explore with
the Government of Angola and UNITA possibilities for substantial
additional assistance related to peace-keeping and to report to
the Council on the results of these explorations;
15. Urges Member States to respond positively to the request
made to them by the Secretary-General to contribute personnel,
equipment and other resources to UNAVEM III in order to facilitate
its early deployment;
16. Demands that all concerned in Angola take the necessary
measures to ensure the safety and freedom of movement of United
Nations and other personnel deployed under UNAVEM III;
17. Welcomes the presence of the OAU Ministerial delegation
and notes, in this connection, the need for continued cooperation
between the United Nations and the OAU in the promotion of peace
and security in Angola and the contribution which regional organizations
can make to crisis management and conflict resolution;
18. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.
-----
Jose Eduardo dos Santos, and the leader of UNITA, Dr. Jonas Savimbi,
to meet without delay with a view to building the necessary political
momentum for the successful implementation of the Lusaka Protocol,
"Welcoming the Ministerial delegation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) to the Security Council to participate in its consideration of the situation in Angola,
"1. Authorizes the establishment of a peace-keeping operation, UNAVEM III, to assist the parties in restoring peace and achieving national reconciliation in Angola on the basis of the 'Acordos de Paz', the Lusaka Protocol and relevant Security Council resolutions, as outlined in part IV of the report of the Secretary-General dated 1 February 1995, with an initial mandate until 8 August 1995 and with a maximum deployment of 7,000 military personnel, in addition to the 350 military observers and 260 police observers mentioned in the Secretary-General's report, with an appropriate number of international and local staff;
"2. Urges the expeditious deployment of the military and police observers to monitor the cease-fire;
"3. Authorizes the immediate deployment of such planning and support elements as are needed to prepare for the deployment of peace-keeping forces provided that the Secretary-General remains satisfied that an effective cease-fire and effective joint cease-fire monitoring mechanisms are in place, and that both parties are allowing the free and safe flow of humanitarian assistance throughout the country, and authorizes the subsequent deployment of such additional elements as are necessary to establish operational quartering areas for UNITA forces;
"4. Decides that the deployment of infantry units will take place on the basis of a report from the Secretary-General to the Security Council that the conditions contained in paragraph 32 of the Secretary-General's report, inter alia, effective cessation of hostilities, provision of all relevant military data, and designation of all quartering areas, have been met, provided the Council does not decide otherwise;
"5. Stresses the importance it attaches to the expeditious establishment of a well-coordinated and comprehensive mine-clearance programme in Angola as set out in the Secretary-General's report dated 1 February 1995, and requests him to inform the Council of progress in its implementation;
"6. Endorses the Secretary-General's view set out in his report (S/1995/97 and Add.1) as to the need for UNAVEM III to have an effective information capability, including a United Nations radio station to be established in consultation with the Government of Angola;
"7. Requests the Secretary-General to inform the Council monthly of progress in the deployment of UNAVEM III and in implementation of the Lusaka Protocol, including the maintenance of an effective cease-fire, free access by UNAVEM III to all areas of Angola, free flow of humanitarian assistance throughout Angola and compliance by both the Government of Angola and by UNITA with their obligations under the Lusaka Protocol, and further requests the Secretary-General to submit to the Council a complete report by 15 July 1995;
"8. Welcomes the Secretary-General's intention to include human rights specialists in the political component of UNAVEM III to observe the implementation of the provisions related to national reconciliation;
"9. Expresses its intention to review the role of the United Nations in Angola should the Secretary-General report that the cooperation required from the parties is substantially delayed or not forthcoming;
"10. Declares its intention to conclude the mission of UNAVEM III when the objectives of the Lusaka Protocol have been achieved in accordance with the schedule attached to the Lusaka Protocol and with the expectation of its completion by February 1997;
"11. Welcomes the substantial contributions of the Member States, United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations to meet the humanitarian needs of the Angolan people and encourages additional substantial contributions;
"12. Reaffirms the obligation of all States to implement fully the provisions of paragraph 19 of resolution 864 (1993), and calls upon the Government of Angola and UNITA during UNAVEM III's presence in Angola to cease any acquisition of arms and war materiel, as agreed upon in the 'Acordos de Paz', and to devote their resources instead to priority humanitarian and social needs;
"13. Calls upon the Government of Angola to conclude no later than 20 March 1995 an agreement with the United Nations on the Status of Forces;
"14. Encourages the Secretary-General to pursue urgently the offer of direct assistance by the Government of Angola to UNAVEM III, to reflect this as appropriate in the Status of Forces Agreement referred to in paragraph 13 above, and to explore with the Government of Angola and UNITA possibilities for substantial additional assistance related to peace-keeping and to report to the Council on the results of these explorations;
"15. Urges Member States to respond positively to the request made to them by the Secretary-General to contribute personnel, equipment and other resources to UNAVEM III in order to facilitate its early deployment;
"16. Demands that all concerned in Angola take the necessary measures to ensure the safety and freedom of movement of United Nations and other personnel deployed under UNAVEM III;
"17. Welcomes the presence of the OAU Ministerial delegation and notes, in this connection, the need for continued cooperation between the United Nations and the OAU in the promotion of peace and security in Angola and the contribution which regional organizations can make to crisis management and conflict resolution;
"18. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter."
(END OF TAKE 2)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 3
The President of the Council, Lieutenant-General MOMPATI S. MERAFHE,
Minister for Foreign Affairs of Botswana, resumed the meeting
at 4:12 p.m.
The first speaker in the debate this afternoon, SIMBARASHE S.
MUMBENGEGWI (Zimbabwe), said that even though the success of the
peace process in Angola ultimately depended on the people of Angola,
assistance from the international community was essential. The
report of the Secretary-General had testified that the cease-fire,
which came into force in November 1994, was holding. The parties
to the conflict had demonstrated their firm commitment to peace
and, therefore, satisfied the requirements set by previous Council
resolutions.
The Security Council should immediately deploy the required peace-keeping
force, in full, to oversee and verify the implementation of the
agreements reached by the parties, he said. Since the parties
had shown their commitment to peace, it would be a serious mistake
to continue to test their patience any further. The Security Council
should deploy UNAVEM III without undue delay and, in so doing,
avoid mistakes of the past which could risk derailing the delicate
peace process.
KEBA BIRANE CISSE (Senegal) said the Lusaka Protocol was a crucial
turnaround in the conflict in Angola. The Angolan leaders should
leave the past behind and build a better future for their citizens.
The fact that the cease-fire had held in Angola since November
1994 was a sign of progress and grounds for hope. There should
be more dialogue to help establish peace in Angola as had been
done in Mozambique. The deployment of UNAVEM III would help restore
peace. For their part, the Angolan leaders must show their desire
for peace for it to take root in their country.
He appealed to the international community to contribute generously
to the inter-agency programme launched by the Department of Humanitarian
Affairs to help Angola.
(END OF TAKE 3)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 4
DAUDI N. MWAKAWAGO (United Republic of Tanzania) said that, for
more than 30 years, peace had eluded the people of Angola. The
devastating impact of the war on the people's lives and on the
country's economic and social infrastructure had been immense,
claiming the highest casualty rate of any conflict in the world,
at 1,000 deaths daily. Hundreds of thousands had perished, thousands
had been crippled for life, and nearly 3.5 million had been displaced,
made refugees and orphaned. At the same time, most of Angola's
useful land had been turned into a wide expanse of dangerous minefields.
The signing of the Lusaka Protocol must be seen as the culmination
of the protracted efforts of the international community aimed
at bringing about a lasting peace in Angola, he said. It was clear
that the people of Angola were tired of war and very much wanted
to give the Lusaka Protocol a chance so that they could, at last,
live in peace and engage in national reconciliation and the reconstruction
of their rich country. He commended the Government of Angola for
persistently negotiating in good faith and for offering to contribute
in kind towards an expanded United Nations presence in Angola.
"Indeed, we have come this far in the Angolan peace process
largely because Luanda has been very accommodating." He also
welcomed the commitment of the UNITA forces to fully respect and
implement the Lusaka Protocol.
The very presence of the OAU's ministerial delegation was a firm
demonstration of Africa's solidarity with the people of Angola
and its desire to contribute to the peace process, he said. The
examples of South Africa, and more recently Mozambique, should
augur well not only for Angola, but also for all theatres of conflict
in the continent. The much-awaited meeting between President Eduardo
dos Santos and Jonas Savimbi of UNITA should also go a long way
towards assuring the international community about the resolve
of the people of Angola to pursue the peace process. The international
community must immediately take action to consolidate the peace
process and deploy UNAVEM III to take over from UNAVEM II without
any further delay.
BOUBACAR TOURE (Guinea-Bissau) said the tragedy being played out
in Angola had political, economic and social dimensions. The African
countries feared the disastrous effects of that tragedy on their
own economies and, therefore, sought to correct it. The past few
years had been lost to the people of Angola in terms of development.
War had drained financial resources, destroyed the country's economy
and cost many lives.
The African countries supported Angola's just struggle for independence
and the preservation of its territorial integrity, he continued.
They supported the era of democracy and national reconciliation
in Angola. African States were committed to supporting a lasting
peace there. For that reason, a high-level OAU delegation had
come to the Council.
He welcomed Angola's amnesty law covering those who had committed
offences in the post-electoral period. Angola's pledge of support
to UNAVEM III was also encouraging, he said. The people of Angola
and those of Guinea-Bissau had a shared history, culture and struggle.
Guinea-Bissau fully supported the peace process and was prepared
to provide contingents to UNAVEM III as needed.
(END OF TAKE 4)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 5
PEDRO COMISSARIO AFONSO (Mozambique) supported the Secretary-General's
recommendation that UNAVEM III should immediately take over from
UNAVEM II. Mozambique's experience in the deployment of the United
Nations forces on its territory showed that the sooner a verification
mission was established and deployed, the better for the success
of the peace process.
The signing of the Lusaka Protocol last November represented the
culmination of a long and delicate process of negotiations to
address the war situation in Angola and to contribute to bringing
about peace and stability, not only in that country, but also
to the entire region of southern Africa, he went on. Peace in
Angola could not be delayed any longer. More than ever, the United
Nations and the international community were duty bound to extend
their hand of solidarity to the people of Angola in their quest
for peace and stability. In assisting the Angolan people, it was
critical to uphold the principles of sovereignty, non-intervention
and non-interference in internal affairs of a Member State. In
that context, Mozambique could not support the deployment of any
peace-keeping operation with conditionalities attached. He supported
Angola's assertion that some paragraphs in the draft resolution
should be revised to address its concerns.
In facing the challenges of humanitarian assistance, the Government
of Angola would need the support of the international community,
he continued. The United Nations would play a critical role in
providing a proper framework for the effective coordination of
humanitarian aid. Mine clearance was essential for achieving the
resettlement of returnees and displaced persons. Its success was
crucial in the efforts aimed at rehabilitating the country's infrastructure
and promoting agricultural production in the rural areas.
Mozambique was linked to Angola by long and special ties of brotherhood
and friendship, he stated. "We are united not just by a common
historical past or by a common language", he said. "More
than that, we are united to that sister country because our peoples
fought together for the independence of their countries. We forged
together our national identities and together we resisted destabilization
and aggression." The Angolan peace process and the Mozambican
peace process had followed the same path; both had experienced
hurdles and uncertainties. The Council had recently celebrated
the successful conclusion of the mandate of the United Nations
Operation in Mozambique (ONUMOZ). But as long as peace was not
a reality in Angola, the success achieved in Mozambique could
be neither complete nor solid. Mozambique stood ready to support
the peace process in Angola.
(END OF TAKE 5)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 6
PETER OSVALD (Sweden) said the people of Angola had suffered the
plight of a devastating civil war for too long. The Lusaka Protocol
and the subsequent cease-fire provided a basis for a process leading
to a lasting peace, but the situation remained uncertain. The
events of 1992, when UNITA resorted to arms after defeat in the
general elections, must not be allowed to happen again. It was
a good sign that the military commanders of both sides had met,
but that was not enough. Direct talks between President dos Santos
and Jonas Savimbi were necessary for any real process towards
national reconciliation.
He went on to say that respect for the cease-fire by the parties
and their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of personnel
had made it possible for the Secretary-General to recommend that
UNAVEM III now take over from UNAVEM II. It was also encouraging
that many Member States had indicated a readiness to contribute
a significant number of units and observers to the new operation.
Sweden had participated with military and police observers in
UNAVEM II, and would provide 20 military observers to UNAVEM III.
The numbers of mines dispersed was a serious problem, causing
continuous deaths and suffering, as well as preventing the return
of normal life, he continued. In response, Swedish military personnel,
working in cooperation with the Angolan Government and the World
Food Programme (WFP), would begin mine-clearance operations in
the country. His Government was also examining the possibility
of sending its military experts to assist in demobilizing operations.
The PRESIDENT then put the draft resolution to a vote and invited
members wishing to make statements before the vote to do so.
The first speaker, IBRAHIM A. GAMBARI (Nigeria), said the indications
on the ground were that UNAVEM III was a viable prospect. The
cease-fire was generally holding, and the parties seemed determined
to pursue the cause of peace in the higher interest of national
survival, reconciliation and reconstruction. Angola had offered
to make a substantial contribution in kind to the new peace-keeping
operation. It was hoped that gesture would induce similar cooperation
on the part of the international community. "After decades
of internecine civil war, it is conceivable that the people of
Angola are now fully prepared to let go of the war psychosis in
favour of the pursuit of peace."
Through the mandate of UNAVEM III, the United Nations sought to
provide a force that could contend with the enormity and complexity
of the problem within a time-frame that would not imply a perpetual
United Nations presence in Angola, he said. At the core of the
proposed mandate was the flexibility which the Secretary-General
must retain to determine the course, content and timing of the
deployment of military forces and civilian personnel as the situation
on the ground in Angola warranted.
The mandate of UNAVEM III must commence no later than 31 March.
Nigeria would have preferred to see an initial deployment period
of 12 months, but it accepted the six-month initial period proposed
in the draft on the understanding that the United Nations was
not about to terminate its presence in Angola after six months,
but was prepared to extend the operation for additional periods,
based on the Mission's performance to enable the political process
to take root.
(END OF TAKE 6)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 7
Continuing, Mr. GAMBARI (Nigeria) stressed the need to create
a conducive environment for th political process, and welcomed
the call for a meeting between the President of Angola and the
leader of UNITA, as soon as possible. Such a high-level meeting
would provide additional impetus to the peace process and would
build confidence between the parties. The objective should be
for all Angolans to have access to decision-making.
The magnitude of the social dislocation and disruption in Angola
required assistance to that country to reconcile, rehabilitate
and reconstruct itself. Nigeria commended the efforts of those
States and organizations which had so far assisted those efforts,
and urged them to continue.
WANG XUEXIAN (China) said the determination of the two Angolan
parties to engage in national reconciliation and end their conflict
by peaceful means had set an example for the settlement of other
conflicts and disputes in Africa. It was his hope that the two
Angolan parties would maintain the cease-fire and accomplish the
cause of national reconciliation according to the timetable set
forth in the Lusaka Protocol.
The establishment of UNAVEM III was not only the strong desire
of the two Angolan parties and people, but also concrete support
by the international community to support and consolidate the
Angolan peace process, he continued. The sending of such a large
high-level delegation by the OAU to New York to participate in
the consideration of the Angolan question at the Security Council
had demonstrated the readiness of African countries and the OAU
to contribute their share to the settlement of conflicts in Africa,
which was highly commendable. The United Nations and the Security
Council should attach great importance to resolving African problems
and strengthening cooperation with the OAU, so as to help Angola
rebuild peace at an early date. The Chinese Government and people
supported the OAU in its efforts to safeguard political stability
in Africa and actively participate in international affairs, particularly
the political settlement of African conflicts.
Thepost-cold-war worldwas far fromtranquil, he said. The international
community urgently needed a peaceful and stable environment to
promote common development and improve people's living standards.
Such a need was much more pressing and practical in today's Africa.
Without peace and stability in Africa, world peace and stability
would de elusive. The Angolan people needed continued strong support
from the international community . Because the draft resolution
reflected such an objective situation and demand, the Chinese
delegation would vote in favour.
(END OF TAKE 7)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 8
SERGEI V. LAVROV (Russian Federation) said Russia, as one of the
three observer States to the peace process, supported the transition
to UNAVEM III with an expanded mandate. The Council should approve
such a mandate in order to strengthen the cease-fire and the atmosphere
of trust. The establishment of UNAVEM III would also give new
impetus to the peace process. The draft resolution was consistent
with the Lusaka Protocol and was in keeping with requirements
for new peace-keeping operations. It was important that the draft
resolution provided for the immediate phased deployment of UNAVEM
III. Russia would vote in favour of the draft.
The success of the operation would depend not only on the efforts
of the United Nations, but also on those of the parties. The parties,
particularly UNITA, must commit themselves to the peace process
in order to end the fighting. A meeting between President dos
Santos and Mr. Savimbi would be critical to national reconciliation.
For its part, Russia would continue to exert maximum efforts in
support of peace in Angola.
GERARDO MARTINEZ BLANCO (Honduras) expressed his appreciation
of the efforts of the OAU to resolve the conflict in Angola and
other countries in Africa. The organization should remain active
in other countries in Africa where military conflicts were ongoing.
The report of the Secretary-General reflected the situation in
Angola, he said, expressing support for the report and its appeals
for humanitarian assistance to Angola. He also supported the draft
resolution being considered by the Council to establish UNAVEM
III, with an initial mandate until August 1995.
Once all conditions of the Lusaka Protocol were met, the mandate
of UNAVEM II could be concluded, he stated. After that, the future
of Angola would be in the hands of its leaders because it would
be difficult for the international community to go back to help
them sort out their problems again.
JEAN-BERNARD MERIMEE (France) said the OAU had, and would continue
to play, a key role in resolving the Angolan conflict. The role
of regional organizations was vital to United Nations peace efforts.
The draft resolution provided a framework for UNAVEM III for the
next three years. It provided a clear mandate which did not overlook
anything. The UNAVEM III contained military, political, humanitarian
and electoral components. He welcomed the fact that, based on
past experience, a United Nations radio station would be established
in Angola.
The draft resolution would not give carte blanche to the parties,
he continued. Past failures must not be allowed to be repeated.
The Council would review the United Nations role in Angola if
the Secretary-General reported that cooperation by the parties
was less than adequate. For France, that was no mere formality.
The draft resolution provided for the Council to be kept apprised
scrupulously of the details of the operation.
The Angolan people were yearning for peace; he hoped that the
time had come for them to turn a new page in their history.
(END OF TAKE 8)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 9
PAOLO FULCI (Italy) said the deployment of a peace-keeping mission
with broad dimensions and a detailed mandate, as foreseen in the
draft resolution, was both necessary and fully justified. A prerequisite
for the operation's success, however, was full adherence by the
parties to their commitments. In that sense, the exchange of letters
between President Jose Eduardo dos Santos and Jonas Savimbi of
UNITA represented an encouraging development, since it marked
the opening of direct dialogue at the highest political level.
He expressed hope that a meeting between the two leaders could
take place soon.
The time had come for the Angolan parties to redirect their resources
away from the acquisition of weapons and towards fulfilling the
needs of the people, he said. It was time to empty the arsenals
and fill the granaries. The Italian Government had already committed
approximately $60 million in humanitarian assistance to Angola,
and would continue to do its part.
Among the confidence-building measures for Angola, the Secretary-General's
proposal to establish a radio transmitter within the framework
of UNAVEM III seemed particularly important, he added. Previous
experience had taught the Council that radio communications had
fundamental importance both in the negative sense, when they amplified
distorted news and provocations, and in the positive sense, when
under responsible management they helped disseminate correct information.
DETLEV GRAF ZU RANTZAU (Germany) said that in deciding to establish
an enlarged peace-keeping operation in Angola, the Council had
to consider two aspects: a sizeable United Nations presence in
Angola would certainly assist the peace process and help to successfully
implement the provisions of the Lusaka Protocol; however, the
Council could not be absolutely sure whether the parties would
continue to demonstrate the political determination to abide by
the commitments they had undertaken in Lusaka.
Another aspects of the Council's decision was that if peace-keepers
were to be deployed, there must be a peace to be kept, as well
as conditions must exist that would lend meaning to the peace-keepers'
task. The timetable agreed upon by the parties in Lusaka had not
been followed scrupulously; therefore, the approach outlined in
the draft resolution to immediately authorize UNAVEM III, but
to only gradually deploy the infantry units, seemed sensible.
The importance of expeditiously establishing a well-coordinated
and comprehensive mine-clearance programme was also important,
he said, as was establishing a United Nations radio station in
consultation with the Government of Angola. It was also necessary
to find a solution to the problem of the financing of political
parties. Experience in Mozambique had shown that aspect to be
particularly relevant in a peace process.
Ultimately, he said, only the Government of Angola and UNITA could
make UNAVEM III a success. If the cooperation required from the
Angolan parties was not forthcoming, the Council would have to
reconsider the role of the United Nations in Angola. While there
were obvious risks if the international community got involved
in a new peace-keeping operation in Angola, the international
community was right to incur those risks to help achieve a real
and lasting peace in Angola. Germany would vote in favour of the
draft resolution.
(END OF TAKE 9)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 10
MANZI BAKURAMUTSA (Rwanda) said he was aware of the vital role
played by the OAU in Africa, as it had served to help resolve
the Rwandese conflict. Rwanda was gratified by the arrival of
the winds of peace in Angola and by the international response
to the difficult peace process. Angola had long been victim of
a deadly and protracted civil war, but it was demonstrating the
potential of brothers, involved in a fratricidal war, to bury
the hatchet.
Recent positive political developments in southern Africa, especially
in South Africa, Mozambique and Angola, were welcome, he said.
The reconstruction of Angola could not take place in such a mine-laden
country without a thorough mine-clearance programme. National
reconciliation in Angola required the cooperation of the international
community and the efforts of the Angolan people. It was hoped
that the merchants of arms which had fueled the conflict would
now contribute to peace in Angola.
He expressed support for the establishment of UNAVEM III, which
aimed at bringing peace to Angola. He hoped that military and
political observers would soon be deployed to monitor the cease-fire.
Rwanda would vote in favour of the draft resolution
The draft resolution was adopted unanimously as resolution 976
(1995).
Speaking after adoption of the resolution, MADELEINE K. ALBRIGHT
(United States) expressed hope that the Lusaka Protocol had brought
an end to the civil strife that had plagued Angola. It provided
"concrete guarantees of UNITA's political and physical survival",
through its participation in all sectors of the government, the
military, and the police. And it ensured that UNITA would voluntarily
relinquish its armed forces and assume its legitimate role as
an opposition political party.
The Lusaka Protocol and the efforts of the Angolan parties to
fulfil their commitments were vital to peace in Angola, and UNAVEM
III would form an integral part of that process, she said. However,
there was disturbing news today that Jonas Savimbi was casting
doubts on the Lusaka Protocol. The Council resolution stressed
the need for a meeting between him and President dos Santos, without
delay. That meeting had now become more critical.
She went on to emphasize that any deployment of infantry units
in UNAVEM III could not proceed without the Secretary-General's
report that the Lusaka Protocol was being effectively implemented.
"Our message to all parties is very clear: don't blow it.
Do the right thing for your people and for the future of your
country." The resolution represented the international community's
confidence in the Angolan people. She hoped that it would not
be undermined by any of their leaders.
The mandate of UNAVEM III was clear: to monitor disarmament and
demobilization of combatants; assist military and police integration;
and facilitate the incorporation of UNITA into the Angolan Government.
When those objectives were achieved, UNAVEM III would end its
mandate. All of that could be accomplished within two years. "We
mean to hold the Angolan parties to their commitment to complete
the process." The Secretary-General would inform the Council
every month of progress in deploying UNAVEM III and in implementing
the Lusaka Protocol. The Council intended to review the role of
the United Nations in Angola if the cooperation required from
the parties was not forthcoming.
(END OF TAKE 10)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 11
Continuing, Ms. ALBRIGHT (United States) said the Lusaka Protocol
clearly set out a timetable, on which the parties had already
fallen more than a month behind. Both the Government and UNITA
must furnish the United Nations with details concerning their
respective forces, including number of men, composition and type
of forces, type of equipment and specific location. But the parties
were sometimes reluctant to carry out their agreements. That recalcitrance
must end for, without the input and active cooperation of the
parties, the peace-keeping effort could have no more success than
past efforts, and it would not be sustained by the Council.
The United Nations presence must not become an excuse of failure
to move forward, she continued. The initial mandate of the operation
was for six months; then the Council would be in a position to
review progress before reviewing the mandate. The Angolan Government
had offered to help offset the cost of UNAVEM III by providing
free or at cost petroleum, aircraft, and building, in addition
to the usual waivers of customs duties and other fees. The resolution
called for active exploration with both parties of substantial
additional contributions to help cover the costs of peace-keeping.
"It is fitting and fair that the rich natural resources of
Angola be made available to support UNAVEM III", she said.
STEPHEN GOMERSALL (United Kingdom) said the Council's decision
to increase the United Nations presence in Angola underlined its
commitment to support the people of that country in their long
search for peace and national reconciliation. The Council had
maintained faith with the people of Angola during the civil war
which followed UNITA's rejection of the results of the 1992 elections.
But experience of Angola had taught the Council to be cautious.
The people of Angola were ultimately responsible for the future
of their country; the United Nations could help them, but it could
not if they would not help themselves. Therefore, the Government
of Angola and UNITA must demonstrate that the international community
had made the right decision today. An early meeting between President
dos Santos and Mr. Savimbi would send the right signal.
The Council had made clear that it was not prepared to countenance
further substantial delays or lack of cooperation from the Angolan
parties in fulfilling certain obligations and would, in those
circumstances, review the role of the United Nations in Angola.
The Council also expected that the mission of UNAVEM III would
be completed, without undue delay, in accordance with the schedule
set out in the Lusaka Protocol. It believed that the mandate should
be fulfilled before February 1997.
He supported the Secretary-General's call for donors to respond
generously to meet the humanitarian needs of the Angolan people.
The United Kingdom had contributed around $36 million in humanitarian
aid, both bilaterally and through the European Union, since the
United Nations launched its international appeal for Angola in
June 1993. It would continue to do what it could help.
The resolution was a reaffirmation by the international community
of its commitment to United Nations mechanisms to resolve conflicts
which were beyond the means or ability of individual nations to
solve. Major donors must follow through on their commitments to
finance operations they have played a leading role in establishing.
(END OF TAKE 11)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 12
MAKARIM WIBISONO (Indonesia) welcomed the report that the cease-fire
was generally holding. It was hoped that the parties would take
steps to assure the implementation of the Lusaka Protocol. Certain
elements of the Lusaka Protocol, such as those related to demining,
and the quartering, disarming and demobilizaiton of troops under
the United Nations, had yet to be implemented. Those conditions
should be met and the pace of the Mission's deployment quickened.
Additional substantial funds must be obtained from the donor community
and the timetable of the Lusaka Protocol adhered to.
Indonesia voted in favour of the resolution establishing UNAVEM
III expressly for the purpose of keeping to the agreed-upon timetable,
he went on. An enlarged United Nations operation in Angola would
assist the parties in restoring peace, achieving national reconciliation,
and beginning restoration of the economy and infrastructure. The
speed with which UNAVEM III was deployed would be crucial to maintaining
the momentum towards peace in Angola.
While it was apparent that the implementation schedule must be
adjusted, that schedule modification must not be allowed to create
even the hope of any party renewing the conflict. The parties
must cooperate in expediting the electoral process which had been
disrupted in 1992. The holding of the second round of presidential
elections, which would take place after the United Nations had
declared that the requisite conditions had been met, should serve
as a symbol of the normalization of Angola's national life.
SALIM BIN MOHAMMED AL-KHUSSAIBY (Oman) welcomed the fact that
two months after the signing of the Lusaka Protocol, the cease-fire
was still holding without major violations, and that the Joint
Commission established at Lusaka was continuing its work aimed
at creating an atmosphere of mutual trust and confidence between
the parties. He hoped that the anticipated meeting between President
dos Santos and Dr. Savimbi would soon take place with a view to
building the necessary political momentum for the successful implementation
of the Protocol.
He stressed that it was vital that the two parties continued to
demonstrate the political will and the commitment necessary for
the achievement of peace and national reconciliation through the
strict and timely compliance of the peace accords, the Lusaka
Protocol and the relevant Council resolutions, in the interest
of durable peace, security, and economic and social development
in their country. The resolution demonstrated the resolve of the
international community to continue its support to the Angolan
peace process. It also sent a clear message to the parties that
the international community would not entertain any delay in the
implementation of the Lusaka Protocol. He hoped that all parties
in Angola would take today's Council message seriously and in
the spirit of reconciliation, peace, brotherhood, co-existence
and harmony in the interest of building a new democratic Angola.
(END OF TAKE 12)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 13
MARIA FERNANDA CANAS (Argentina) said the establishment of UNAVEM
III was an expression of the international community's commitment
to peace in Angola. The people of that country deserved the path
of reconciliation and peace. The Angolan Government and UNITA
must lead the process to success. Their commitment would, to a
great extent, determine the willingness of the international community
to lend support. A meeting between President dos Santos and Jonas
Savimbi would contribute to that requirement.
She welcomed Angola's in-kind contribution to the Mission. The
UNAVEM III had a clear mandate. The operation was one of the most
ambitious and complicated peace-keeping operations established
by the United Nations over the past two years. It was hoped that
the parties would avoid further delays in implementing the Lusaka
Protocol, and that the United Nations forces required would be
deployed rapidly.
A broad mine-clearance programme was needed to address the grave
problem of mines which threatened Angolans now and in the future.
International support was essential to peace. An information component
for the Mission was also critical, and it should be pursued in
cooperation with the Government of Angola. Monitoring mechanisms
would allow the Council to review periodically the operation's
success. Argentina had, in the past, contributed troops for peace-keeping
in Angola and would continue to do so in the future. Southern
Africa had the potential to become a centre for development. It
was hoped that progress in that region would allow to benefit
other States.
DUSAN ROVENSKY (Czech Republic) said the resolution marked a very
important step towards peace in Angola. By authorizing the establishment
of UNAVEM III, the international community had firmly committed
itself to aid the process of national reconciliation in Angola.
However, even the best-drafted Council resolution could not, in
itself, guarantee the success of the political settlement in Angola;
it was the Government and the leaders of UNITA who bore primary
responsibility for the success or failure of the peace process.
The Angolan parties also had the primary responsibility for the
safety and freedom of movement of United Nations and other personnel
deployed under UNAVEM III and for demining operations. It was
also their responsibility to solve the problem of the thousands
of demobilized troops. It was also necessary for the Angolan parties
to implement the Lusaka Protocol in accordance with the agreed
timetable and even to try to accelerate the whole process. The
United Nations and the OAU had to work together to bring peace,
stability and development to Angola and the region.
He supported the deployment of UNAVEM III and expected the cease-fire
arrangements to be followed scrupulously and in good faith. It
was important that the Council be ready to review the role of
the United Nations in Angola, if the cooperation required from
the parties were not forthcoming or were substantially delayed.
He urged both parties to create, with the assistance of international
humanitarian organizations, conditions which would facilitate
the return of thousands of displaced Angolans to their homes.
(END OF TAKE 13)
Security Council Press Release SC/5995
Resumed 3499th Meeting (PM) 8 February 1995
SECURITY COUNCIL -- TAKE 14
Lieutenant-General MOMPATI S. MERAFHE, Foreign Minister of Botswana
and Council President, then made a statement on behalf of his
country. He said the launching of UNAVEM III in the presence of
African Ministers of Foreign Affairs was a clear indication of
the importance attached to settling one of the most brutal and
destructive conflicts in Africa. It was hoped that the parties
would leave no stone unturned to ensure the success of UNAVEM
III. No one wanted to hear of a UNAVEM IV. "This is Angola's
last dance", he said.
It was painful to see the people of Angola fighting in a region
that now enjoyed peace and stability. "We want Angola to
be another political success following on the footsteps of South
Africa, Malawi and Mozambique." Peace-keeping operations
were by nature expensive and were prone to breakdowns. They cold
be wasteful and consumed resources that could otherwise be used
for economic and social development. For that reason, the Angolans
must appreciate the importance of the operation's success.
However, some members of the United Nations were certainly as
responsible as the Angolans for the destruction endured by that
country. They should now turn to assisting that country in reconstruction.
The operation must not be tied down by too many conditionalities.
Restraint and flexibility were required. Isolated and sporadic
violations of the cease-fire must not be used as a pretext for
the Mission's withdrawal.
Each peace-keeping operation worked under unique conditions which
must be taken into account, he said. The United Nations did not
have limitless time and resources for peace-keeping, but it was
important to provide for the Mission's success. Post-conflict
peace-building should be supported during the phased withdrawal
of the operation. There should be a continued United Nations presence
in Angola beyond the Mission's mandate to ensure its long-term
success, and there should be no attempt to withdraw the Mission
for flimsy reasons. It was the responsibility of all to usher
in a new era of peace and stability in Angola.
VENANCIO DE MOURA, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Angola, expressed
his country's full commitment to all Council resolutions on Angola.
Unfortunately, Angola regretted a provision in the resolution
which represented a violation of the Lusaka Protocol. Paragraph
12 of the resolution, which called upon the Government and UNITA
to cease acquisition of war material and use their resources for
humanitarian and social needs compelled his Government to assert
that such a provision amounted to a violation of Angola's sovereignty.
"But let us be optimistic that what happened in 1992 will
not happen again."
The meeting was adjourned at 7:02 p.m.
(END OF TAKE 14 AND PRESS RELEASE SC/5995)