SC/8229
29 October 2004
Press Statement by Security Council President on Great Lakes Region of Africa
NEW YORK, 28 October (UN Headquarters) -- Following is the text of the statement to the press delivered on 27 October by Security Council President Adam Thomson (United Kingdom):
Members of the Security Council heard a briefing by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes, Mr. Ibrahima Fall, on the preparatory process of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region.
Members of the Council noted with satisfaction the progress made towards the holding of the above-mentioned Conference, based on a regional all-inclusive and action oriented approach. They welcomed the constructive discussions and pragmatic approach that prevailed at the Regional Preparatory Meetings held in Bujumbura and Kinshasa.
Members of the Council welcomed the convening of the first summit of the Conference in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, from November 19 to 20. They reiterated their support to the principle of ownership and encouraged all the governments concerned to continue their efforts to bring about the effective implementation of its outcome.
Members of the Council took note of the Conference's principle of partnership and commended the role being played by the donors, including the Group of Friends of the Great Lakes Region. They reiterated their appeal to the international community to continue to provide sustained political and diplomatic as well as adequate technical and financial assistance.
Members of the Security Council further welcomed the efforts of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Great Lakes and commended the partnership between the African Union and the United Nations in all aspects related to the preparation of the Conference.
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