Unofficial translation from Russian

PRESS RELEASE

In the course of the meeting held today the Foreign Ministers of the five permanent members of the Security Council and UN Secretary General Kofi Annan reaffirmed that the United Nations must continue to play a key role in meeting current challenges. In this connection they emphasized the need to strengthen global efforts to combat international terrorism, especially through the full implementation by all states of Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001) and their close cooperation with the Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) of the Security Council.

Jointly with the Secretary General the Ministers hailed the dramatic changes taking place in Afghanistan, particularly the establishment of the Transitional Administration, and voiced their support for the full implementation of the Bonn Agreement. They underscored the urgent need for the international community to continue to assist in restoring the country.

The Ministers reemphasized their determination to promote a just, comprehensive and lasting settlement of the Middle East conflict based on Security Council Resolutions 242, 338 and 1397, the Madrid terms of reference, and the principle of land for peace. They strongly support the goal of achieving a final Israeli-Palestinian settlement, and remain committed to implementing the vision of two States, Israel and an independent, viable and democratic Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. They resolutely and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence and terrorism. The Ministers voiced increasing concern at the mounting humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian areas and, while recognizing Israel's legitimate security concerns, call on Israel to take the immediate measures necessary to alleviate humanitarian sufferings of the Palestinian people. They also expressed support for the ongoing reforms in Palestine.

The Ministers discussed the Iraqi question. They agreed that Iraqi non-compliance with the relevant Security Council resolutions is a serious matter and that Iraq must comply with them. The Ministers have begun consultations on how the Security Council can deal with the issue to ensure the implementation of its resolutions.

The Ministers again spoke for the development of the capabilities of the African Union and sub-regional organizations in Africa for the prevention of conflicts. They particularly noted the importance of bringing lasting peace to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and welcomed the developing political dialogue in the region. They supported the commitments taken by the Government of Angola and UNITA to solve the outstanding issues of the Lusaka Protocol and to restore peace and security in the country. On the New Partnership for Africa's Development, the Ministers welcomed the pledge by African leaders to the people of Africa to promote peace and security and welcomed also the commitment of the international community to support Africa's efforts in these fields.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction that the many-sided cooperation among the five Security Council permanent members had borne additional fruits in solving a number of questions in New York and elsewhere. As before, they believe that such cooperation meets the interests of the Security Council and the international community as a whole.

September 14, 2002