The Security Council this afternoon urged all parties in Burundi to continue pursuing a negotiated settlement of their conflict and refrain from actions that might harm such dialogue.

In a statement read out by its President, Park Soo Gil (Republic of Korea), the Council welcomed both the talks being held in Rome to complement the Arusha peace process on Burundi and the Burundi Government's commitment to a comprehensive dialogue among all the parties within the framework of that process.

Reiterating its support for the peace efforts of leaders of the region, the Council welcomed their decision to ease sanctions against Burundi to alleviate the suffering of its people. That decision was relayed to the Council in the Joint Communique of 16 April issued following the Fourth Arusha Regional Summit on the Burundi Conflict held in the United Republic of Tanzania.

Stating its concern that instability continued in Burundi despite recent positive developments, the Council recalled its resolution 1072 (1996) of 30 August 1996, which demanded that all sides in Burundi declare a unilateral cessation of hostilities and initiate unconditional negotiations towards a comprehensive political settlement.

Expressing deep concern at the involuntary resettlement of rural populations, the Council called upon Burundi's Government to allow the people to return to their homes without hindrance.

The meeting began at 12:07 p.m. and adjourned at 12:12 p.m.

For further details please see official record:
S/PV.3785
For further details please see source:
MEETINGS COVERAGE