Security Council Lauds Accord

Security Council Lauds Accord Between Burundian Government And Rebel Group

New York, Jun 21 2007 5:00PM

The United Nations Security Council today welcomed the 17 June agreement between Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza and Agathon Rwasa, leader of the Palipehutu-National Liberation Forces (PALIPEHUTU-FNL), to implement the ceasefire they reached last year.

“The resumption of the dialogue represents a major milestone on the way to peace consolidation in Burundi,” Council President and Belgian Ambassador Johan C. Verbeke said in a press statement.

The 15-member body commended the efforts of Tanzania – which hosted the recent talks between the two sides in Dar-es-Salaam – as well as those of South Africa, Uganda and the African Union in supporting the peace process.

Appealing for “continued dialogue, consensus-building and inclusiveness in order to achieve a successful transition,” the Council called on both sides to press forward with efforts to fully implement the Comprehensive Ceasefire Agreement of 7 September 2006.

The Council’s statement echoes that of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who welcomed the same agreement earlier this week, expressing the hope that “both parties will maintain the momentum created in Dar-es-Salaam to allow for the earliest recovery and consolidation of peace.”

Yesterday, the UN Peacebuilding Commission – which focuses on reconstruction, institution-building and the promotion of sustainable development to prevent countries from sliding back into bloodshed – endorsed the framework to engage Burundi, the UN and other international partners to work together to consolidate peace in the African country.

ENDS

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