SC/8271
     17 December 2004

Press Statement on Middle East by Security Council President

NEW YORK, 16 December (UN Headquarters) -- Following is today’s statement to the press by Security Council President Abdallah Baali (Algeria):

Members of the Security Council welcome the statement made by Mr. Prendergast on the Middle East.

Members of the Security Council encourage the Secretary-General and the Secretariat to continue to provide full support to upcoming Palestinian presidential elections and encourage parties to do their utmost to ensure success of those elections.

Members of the Security Council agree that the moment is propitious for movement to implement the Road Map and look forward to free, fair and open Palestinian elections.

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