SC/8009
26 February 2004
Press Statement on Haiti by Security Council President
NEW YORK, 25 February (UN Headquarters) -- Following is the press statement on Haiti delivered by Security Council President Wang Guangya (China):
The members of the Security Council condemn the continued violence and political crisis in Haiti that has led to the loss of lives, the deterioration of the humanitarian situation, and the abuse of human rights.
The members of the Council deplore the decision by the opposition to reject the Plan of Action of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of American States (OAS), and call upon the Government of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and the opposition to accept and implement the provisions of that Plan and of pertinent OAS resolutions. Implementation of the plan offers the best opportunity to restore confidence and dialogue and for Haitians to resolve differences peacefully, democratically, and constitutionally.
The members of the Council urge the international community to respond to the serious humanitarian situation in Haiti. They call upon all sides in Haiti’s conflict to facilitate the distribution of food and medicine, to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those who need it and to respect United Nations personnel and facilities involved in these activities.
The members of the Council call upon both the Government and the armed rebels to respect human rights and to cease the use of violence to advance political goals. Those responsible for human rights violations should be held accountable.
The members of the Security Council will continue to monitor closely the situation in Haiti.
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