The Security Council this afternoon extended the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) for six months, until 31 May 1997. It took that action by unanimously adopting its resolution 1084 (1996).

By the resolution, the Security Council requested the Secretary-General to continue his efforts with the parties to implement the Settlement Plan and to report to it on implementation of the resolution by 9 May 1997. In his report, the Secretary-General is requested to include proposals for alternative steps, in the framework of the Settlement Plan, should there be no meaningful progress towards removing obstacles to the Plan and his views on the mission's staffing size and configuration.

The Security Council reiterated its commitment to the holding of a free, fair and impartial referendum for the self-determination of Western Sahara. It also welcomed the goodwill gestures of the parties, including the release of prisoners, and encouraged them to pursue those efforts to build confidence.

The meeting was called to order at 4:24 p.m. and adjourned at 4:31 p.m.

For further details please see source:
MEETINGS COVERAGE

For further details please see official record:
S/PV.3718

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