SG/SM/8548
10 December 2002
 

SECRETARY-GENERAL, WELCOMING ACCORD BETWEEN
INDONESIA AND FREE ACEH MOVEMENT, HOPES FOR
PEACEFUL SETTLEMENT OF CONFLICT

NEW YORK, 9 December (UN Headquarters) -- This is the text of a statement today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General welcomes the signing in Geneva today of the Framework Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement.

He congratulates both parties on this important step, which he strongly hopes will pave the way for a return of peace in Aceh. He commends them for their commitment to pursue a peaceful settlement of the conflict, in a manner consistent with the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Indonesia. He also congratulates the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue on its role in bringing about the Agreement, and expresses his gratitude to all those who are prepared to contribute to its implementation.

The Secretary-General reaffirms his readiness to assist the Government of Indonesia in its effort to achieve economic and social development, as well as a successful democratic transition.

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