SC/7873

16 September 2003

PRESS STATEMENT ON GUINEA-BISSAU BY
SECURITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT

NEW YORK, 15 September (UN Headquarters) -- Following is today’s press statement on Guinea-Bissau by Security Council President Emyr Jones Parry (United Kingdom):

Members of the Security Council have been following with concern the events that took place in Guinea-Bissau on 14 September.  They condemned the assumption of power through non-constitutional means, especially by threat or the use of force.

Members of the Security Council called for the speedy restoration of constitutional order.  They further called for the holding of legislative elections as soon as possible.  They also called on the parties concerned to ensure the safety and security of all in Guinea-Bissau.

Members of the Security Council welcomed the constructive role played by Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and CPLP (Community of Portuguese-speaking States) governments to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

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