YouSaid · the spoken record

Pascoe

lines on the record: 957
first: 2007-03-14
most recent: 2012-04-23
sittings or episodes: 55
sources: un-security-council

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“That includes the federal framework of the country, the handling of Kirkuk and other disputed territories, the distribution of wealth from hydrocarbons and a viable revenue-sharing agreement. The potential is there, and it is ultimately up to the Iraqi people to make sound choices that will allow them to build a sustainable and lasting peace. I can assure the Council that we in the United Nations are making a strong contribution and will continue to try to help Iraq in that process.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“He and his team of national and international staff have done extraordinary work for Iraq and its people. As I said at the outset, Iraqis have witnessed an improvement in security. However, as I said before, the situation remains fragile and recent gains could easily be lost. It is imperative that we not become complacent due to recent achievements. Efforts must now focus on achieving the political gains necessary to build trust and confidence across community lines and to improve the quality of life for all Iraqis, including the delivery of basic services and the generation of employment. The United Nations continues to believe that trust is best established by tackling the issues at the heart of each community's competing vision for the future of Iraq.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“We encourage Member States to consider further contributions to the Trust Fund and to provide additional military advisers to the Mission in Iraq, as they remain a critical component of expanding our presence inside the country. We are further grateful to Georgia, Fiji, the Republic of Korea and South Africa for providing security and operational support. Construction of a new integrated compound in Baghdad is essential to the presence of the United Nations in Iraq. I would therefore like to thank the Government of Iraq for its provision of a site for the new integrated United Nations compound in Baghdad and urge it to finalize the arrangement for the co-funding of that important project. I would also acknowledge the leadership that Special Representative De Mistura has displayed in that very difficult operating environment.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“In view of the possible changes in the current arrangement for the presence of the MNF-I after 31 December 2008, it is essential that the security of the United Nations presence continue to be ensured. The so-called distinct entity established in 2004 under the unified command of the multinational forces with a dedicated mission to provide security for the United Nations presence in Iraq recently received contributions that will ensure its operation well into 2009. I would therefore like to thank the Governments of Belgium, the Czech Republic, Finland, Italy and Germany for their recent generous contributions to the Trust Fund to Support the Distinct Entity Created to Provide Security for the United Nations Presence in Iraq.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Health Organization have moved their most senior staff from Amman to Baghdad, and the overall ceiling for United Nations staff members in Iraq has been raised further to accommodate those trends. UNAMI's Iraqi Government liaison officers are currently operating in the offices of nine governors throughout Iraq. Their presence has been instrumental in expanding the breadth and depth of United Nations contact beyond the nation's capital. Security remains essential for the United Nations to function in Iraq, and support and protection from Member States is vital. I would like to express appreciation to the Multinational Force in Iraq (MNF-I), the Department of Safety and Security and others for the support they have already provided.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The Mission also actively supports the work of the Ministry of Human Rights and devotes significant attention to legislative activity relating to human rights and the rule of law. Under the leadership of Special Representative De Mistura, UNAMI, along with the United Nations country team, is working hard to build an enhanced presence throughout the country, despite the obvious challenges and continuous security threats to operations in Iraq. The Baghdad and Erbil offices are expanding, a presence has been established in Basra and Kirkuk, and planning is under way to post national and international staff in Mosul, Najaf and Ramadi.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“Although much has been accomplished in promoting the protection of human rights and the rule of law in Iraq, a great deal more remains to be done. Journalists, educators, medical doctors, judges and lawyers remained prime targets for armed militia and criminal gangs. Gender-based violence, murders, suicides and so-called honour crimes also continued to be documented. UNAMI continues to seek better access to detention centres and improved mechanisms for the efficient legal processing of detainees. Beyond its monitoring and advocacy actions, UNAMI continues to run an active programme of human rights capacity-building and training for Government officials and civil society groups.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“In the military operations undertaken in Basra and Sadr City, United Nations agencies provided emergency water, medicines and food parcels to affected communities and maintained constant dialogue with military commanders, briefing them on the humanitarian situation and its possible deterioration. However, humanitarian access during military operations is often constrained and humanitarian actors at times have felt it unsafe to deliver urgent relief. All parties to conflict should do their utmost to normalize and facilitate humanitarian access during these critical times. During the reporting period, the UNAMI Human Rights Office also focused its monitoring and advocacy activities on the plight of Iraqi civilians who reside in the areas where intense fighting has taken place in recent months.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The percentage of United Nations projects dedicated to humanitarian activities has increased, supported by funding received through the 2008 Iraq consolidated appeal, which currently stands at 47 per cent funded, or $128 million. A regional appeal is being prepared for 2009 that will aim to incorporate into one framework the funding needs not only inside Iraq, but also of Iraqi refugees in neighbouring countries. In consultation with the donors, $20 million of the $55 million that the Trust Fund has gained through interest have been dedicated to addressing humanitarian needs, including through the development of an emergency response fund, which will provide a rapid response capacity to handle the effects of the major military operations that have transpired during the reporting period.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The $300 million that remain are actively being programmed. The Trust Fund goals are now fully aligned with the Compact. With the consent of the Government of Iraq and its donors, it is envisioned that the Iraq Trust Fund will complete activities at the same time as the Compact, in 2011. United Nations assistance will continue supporting the Government of Iraq as it leads its own recovery. Increased attention has been placed on the humanitarian needs of Iraqis and on alleviating the suffering of Iraqi refugees, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups. Over 2.8 million people are currently displaced inside Iraq, and they, together with refugees from neighbouring countries, are returning to their places of origin at a steady rate of up to 10,000 people per month.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The Government of Iraq presented its initiatives for full integration with the regional and global economies, including the establishment of an investment commission, private sector partnerships and transregional initiatives to promote investment, trade and greater cooperation with neighbouring States. The Conference welcomed the Government of Iraq's proposal for a partnership for development, which recognizes that Iraq is a wealthy country that requires technical assistance more than aid. As a result, in close cooperation with the Government of Iraq and donors, we are transitioning from high-capital projects to co-financing, capacity- building and technical assistance. The Iraq Trust Fund - to which the European Commission and Japan, among other donors, have been particularly generous contributors - has already disbursed $1 billion.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“In addition to United Nations assistance for the purpose of meeting those needs, we are working with the Government of Iraq on economic reform for private sector development, aimed particularly at increasing employment opportunities and at diversifying the nation's economic output, which is now heavily reliant upon oil. A new $30-million project will be dedicated to assist in the development of a viable and functioning private sector in Iraq. Economic initiatives were also central to the agenda of the first annual review of the International Compact with Iraq, which was held in Stockholm, Sweden, on 29 May 2008. One hundred States and organizations were in attendance.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“Supporting Iraq's reconstruction and development remains a top priority for the United Nations. While the economy continues to grow due in large part to high oil prices, that has not yet translated into improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens. Unemployment rates remain stubbornly high and the same governorates rate consistently low on key socio-economic indicators such as unemployment, malnutrition and illiteracy. It is estimated that 60 per cent of Iraqis do not have access to one or more essential social services and that 15 per cent lack food security. However, security improvements present a new opportunity for Iraq's oil wealth to reach its population and improve their lives.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The second round of working group meetings on border security, refugees and energy were also held and UNAMI is currently assisting Iraq's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in preparation for the next cycle of working group meetings, leading up to a ministerial conference in Baghdad later this year. The Mission is helping to build the capacity of the dedicated unit within the Ministry, which has been playing a pivotal role in preparing those events. We strongly welcome the developments on the regional front and hope that other regional States will seize on opportunities for turning the regional dialogue process into a real partnership based on mutual interests and concrete cooperation in diplomatic, political, economic and cultural areas. Both Iraq and regional actors must do more, and the United Nations is ready to assist in that effort.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“Following the Stockholm conference to review annual progress in the implementation of the International Compact with Iraq and, in the wake of the security operations conducted with the leadership of Prime Minister Al-Maliki, several member States in the region announced the restoration of full diplomatic representation in Baghdad. Additionally, two meetings of the expanded Conference of Iraq's Neighbours took place at the ministerial level: in Turkey in November 2007 and in Kuwait in April 2008. The Secretary- General and the Iraqi Prime Minister also hosted a high-level meeting on Iraq here in New York last September.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“Those include defining the nature of the federal framework in Iraq, establishing a clear revenue-sharing mechanism and equitably managing Iraq's considerable resources. The United Nations continues to assist the Constitutional Review Committee in the expeditious conclusion of its work, and important related legislation continues to be discussed. Tackling those core issues is as vital as it is difficult and will require wisdom, patience and compromise by all sides. 3 Iraq's neighbours and other States in the region have a vested interest in Iraq's stability and can and should play a constructive role in that regard. During the past year, numerous positive steps were taken to strengthen regional cooperation in support of Iraq.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The Mission plans to present its next set of analyses on disputed territories to the Presidency Council, the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan regional Government during the fall. While UNAMI is working as an honest broker to establish a mutually acceptable way to handle those complex issues, we have repeatedly stressed that the ultimate responsibility to make the difficult decisions lies first and foremost with the Government of Iraq and the other representatives of the Iraqi people. In addition to addressing disputed internal boundaries and the adoption of an inclusive electoral law, there is a need for progress on the fundamental issues that define the nature of the Iraqi State.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The bloodshed in Kirkuk illustrated just how fragile the situation has become and how the lack of dialogue and compromise could easily lead to renewed violence. The passage of the draft election law that was subsequently vetoed and the Kirkuk Provincial Council decision to set in motion mechanisms for a referendum on the status of Kirkuk were provocations by both sides that were inevitably going to raise tensions. UNAMI continues its work on the issue of Kirkuk and disputed internal boundaries, and hopes to establish the firm recognition among Iraqi parties that sustainable peace can be based only upon collective solutions acceptable to all concerned.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“As we meet here this morning, discussions in the Iraqi Parliament in Baghdad around the adoption of a new law remain unresolved. The United Nations has been doing all it can to urge the reaching of practical compromises. In that regard, I would include the fact 08-45136 that we have been involved in all of the discussions that have been ongoing in recent days on the issue, offering many variations to the parties to try to help them to reach a compromise. A failure to come to agreement on a law at this time would be a major setback, not only for the prospects for elections this year, but for the larger process of national reconciliation in Iraq. In connection with discord over the passage of the election law, the situation in Kirkuk grew more tense and turned violent last week.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“Almost all centres have been open throughout the voter registration period, which is a notable feat considering the immense operational and security challenges inside Iraq. UNAMI has also advised the Electoral Commission on how to ensure transparency and strong oversight in the voter registration update process. The international electoral team, in its visits to voter registration centres and field election offices throughout the country, continues to be impressed by the knowledge and professionalism of election administration staff. The Electoral Commission has thus far accredited close to 20,000 political party agents and observers to monitor election events. Without new electoral legislation, however, those critical governorate elections cannot go forward.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“UNAMI continues to focus on advancing political dialogue, national reconciliation and the resolution of disputed internal boundaries, as well as on preparations for the provincial elections in order to ensure they are seen as credible and broadly accepted by the Iraqi people. Iraq's Independent High Electoral Commission, with assistance from UNAMI, has reached a number of operational milestones. Those include organizing the field structure needed to conduct the voter registration update, which is successfully under way in all of Iraq's governorates. The Electoral Commission, with UNAMI's support, recruited and trained nearly 8,000 staff to administer voter registration services to 564 centres nationwide.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“The leading Sunni bloc, 08-45136 Tawafuq, recently returned to the Government, and Prime Minister Al-Maliki filled the vacant cabinet posts that were empty since the boycotts of last spring and summer. The proper implementation of the Amnesty Law, which went into effect in February of this year, has the potential to contribute to developing trust between communities in the country. While the political atmosphere in Baghdad, Kirkuk and elsewhere deteriorated somewhat during the recent debate on the election law, we are hopeful that the Iraqi parties are coming to recognize the need to continue and to expand the extent of their political dialogue. Since the Council handed down a new mandate for UNAMI one year ago, the Mission has worked with great energy to ensure its implementation.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“However, civilian casualties as a result of violence remain unacceptably high. A string of suicide bombings just last week killed 60 people and injured hundreds more in Baghdad and Kirkuk, a brutal reminder of the lengths to which some are willing to go to provoke hatred and division among the Iraqi people. As the Secretary-General's report also makes clear, it is necessary to cement the gains on the security front through strengthened and sustained political dialogue. While a window for improved political dialogue may exist, the situation does remain tenuous and progress achieved thus far could be lost. There has, however, been some progress.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“That has not been an easy task given the circumstances in Iraq, but today, under the more the robust mandate of resolution 1770 (2007) and the strong leadership of his Special Representative on the ground, the United Nations is steadily expanding its presence and activities in Iraq, while remaining mindful of the very complex operating environment in the country. During the past year, we have witnessed steady changes in Iraq that should be noted. As the Secretary- General's report underscores, political and military efforts have contributed to improved security in most parts of the country, most visibly during the past three months. Violent incidents and casualties have declined and we have witnessed the improved performance of Iraq's security forces during a series of operations.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“Mr. Pascoe: Mr. President, I thank you for this opportunity to brief the Council on developments in Iraq and the work of the United Nations in the country. Our efforts have increased in important ways during the year since the adoption of resolution 1770 (2007) in August 2007. Members of the Council have before them the fourth quarterly report of the Secretary- General pursuant to paragraph 6 of that resolution, focusing on the activities in the latest period of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). From the moment he visited Iraq early in his term of office, the Secretary-General has made clear his strong commitment to seeing the United Nations do more to help the Government and the people of that country.”
2008-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5949 (2008) · source
“It is vital that there are visible improvements in the situation on the ground, in the consolidation of the ceasefire in Gaza and in improved conditions in the West Bank. In conclusion, let me reiterate that the Secretary- General remains committed to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East based on Security Council resolutions 242 (1967), 338 (1973), 1397 (2002) and 1515 (2003).”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“The reduction of violence in Gaza is a significant, but fragile, achievement. We hope that this calm can be sustained and, together with internal Palestinian dialogue, lead to other positive steps: the return of the legitimate Palestinian Authority to the Gaza Strip, the reopening of the crossings, the release of Gilad Shalit and a number of Palestinian prisoners and the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank under the legitimate Palestinian Authority on a basis that allows the peace process to move forward. We are encouraged by the determination of the parties to continue negotiations within the Annapolis framework, and by the active role of the United States and other members of the international community. The Quartet will meet in September here in New York and in the period between now and then it is important that progress continue.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“Since the last Security Council briefing, United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon's (UNIFIL) area of operations has remained generally quiet. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) Command has not yet returned the army units that it redeployed out of the area of operations in May, due to the security situation in other parts of the country. The UNIFIL Force Commander has called on the LAF Command to return those units as quickly as possible. In the meantime, UNIFIL and the LAF are working to ensure that the shortage of units does not adversely affect their ability to carry out their obligations under resolution 1701 (2006). Over the reporting period, UNIFIL has continued to record significant numbers of Israeli air violations, which have occurred on an almost daily basis. We again urge Israel to cease these violations.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“The Secretary-General's Facilitator has worked with great perseverance for almost two years and will be submitting a full report to the Secretary- General in the coming period. As you are aware, the Secretary-General has received letters from the Government of Israel and from Hizbullah, committing themselves to further humanitarian action. The Secretary-General will continue to keep the Council informed of these and other developments. A number of security incidents occurred in and around the northern city of Tripoli and other parts of the country during the reporting period. We are concerned about these clashes and the implication they have for the stability and security of Lebanon. We welcome steps taken by the Lebanese authorities to improve security around Tripoli.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“As for Lebanon, we applaud the major step forward taken on 11 July, when President Sleiman announced that agreement had been reached on the composition of the national unity cabinet, subject to a vote of confidence in Parliament in the coming weeks. The Secretary-General welcomed this development and reiterated his call upon all parties to continue to work towards the full implementation of the Doha Accord. The United Nations looks forward to working closely with the new Government. An important achievement of the reporting period was the implementation of the major humanitarian aspects of resolution 1701 (2006). On 16 July, the bodies of the two abducted soldiers were returned to Israel, in exchange for Lebanese detainees and remains.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“The Government of Syria raised the issue of prisoners from the occupied Syrian Golan with Mr. Serry and I note here the release from Israeli 08-4326] custody of Sitan Al-Wali on 8 July. The situation in the occupied Syrian Golan has remained quiet through the reporting period, although settlement activity continues. Yesterday Syrian Foreign Minister Mouallem arrived in Beirut, where he handed over to Lebanese President Michel Sleiman an official invitation to visit Syria. We urge both countries to establish full diplomatic relations and representation, consistent with Security Council resolution 1680 (2006).”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“The Chair of the Paris Conference, France, and the three co-chairs, Norway, the European Commission and the Quartet representative, met on 7 July to discuss developments since the donor conference in December 2007. A meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee is scheduled to be held in September on the margins of the General Assembly. Another round of indirect talks between Syria and Israel, mediated by Turkey, is expected later this month and will be followed by further talks in August. The Secretary-General expressed his appreciation for Turkey's efforts and his support for these talks in his meetings with Prime Minister Erdogan, President Assad and Prime Minister Olmert in Paris. Special Coordinator Serry visited Damascus and underlined United Nations support for the important efforts on this track.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“The report found that only 20 per cent of farmers in the northern West Bank, who used to farm their land west of the barrier, are being issued permits by the Israeli authorities to access their land. This increases dependency on food and humanitarian assistance and it is undermining livelihoods as well. Let me turn now to the Palestinian economic situation. Owing to budget shortfalls this month, the Palestinian Authority barely managed to make salary payments for June. It plans to pay July salaries through loans and donor aid, but will need an additional $600 million in order to stay solvent from August through December - excluding aid for development projects. We urge all donors who have not yet fulfilled their pledges at the December 2007 donors' conference to provide budget support in order to avert a financial cr1s1s.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“Four significant obstacles that had been removed during June were reinstalled by the IDF in July, bringing the total number of closure obstacles to 609. In addition, Israel is renovating the Wadi Nar or Container checkpoint, controlling movement from the north to the southern part of the West Bank, rather than honouring its prior commitment to remove it. A recent report by the Office of the Coordinator of Humanitarian Affairs confirmed that 56 per cent of the planned route of the barrier has now been constructed. The majority of the construction deviates from the Green Line and is therefore contrary to the 2004 Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“Construction activity in Israeli settlements across the West Bank, including in East Jerusalem, has continued in the reporting period, and on 3 July, it was reported that Defense Minister Ehud Barak had approved construction for a new building in the Beit Romano settlement in Hebron's old city. As the Secretary-General has stressed many times before, Israeli construction in settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory is contrary to international law and contrary to Israel's commitments under the Road Map and the Annapolis process. He urges Israel to heed the clear call of the Quartet to freeze all settlement activity, including natural growth, and to dismantle outposts erected since March 2001. Across the West Bank, a slight deterioration in movement and access has been observed, at a time when we had hoped for improvement.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“This morning, as I am sure the Council is aware, a similar attack took place again, resulting in the injury of two Israelis. Meanwhile, in the West Bank, three Palestinians, including one civilian, were killed by the IDF, and 136 others were injured, including at least 22 children. Most of the injuries occurred during anti-barrier demonstrations and were caused by rubber bullets and tear gas. On three occasions since mid-June, Israeli settlers are reported to have fired a total of six rockets towards the Palestinian villages of Burin, southwest of Nablus. On 12 July, Israeli police arrested a settler suspected of manufacturing and launching those projectiles and seized explosives and weapons in the settlement of Yizhar. Subsequently, on 21 July, another rocket was fired from the settlement.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“Palestinian Authority officials, including Prime Minister Fayyad, have criticized those operations as 3 undermining the economy and the Authority's efforts to improve security in the West Bank. Palestinian security forces have continued their efforts to impose law and order and to disarm and arrest militants, in compliance with Palestinian obligations under phase I of the Road Map. We are concerned about the effects of Israeli raids on the efforts of Palestinian security forces to operate effectively in areas under their control. On 2 July, three Israeli civilians, including two women, were killed and 30 others injured, when a Palestinian from East Jerusalem used a bulldozer to attack vehicles in West Jerusalem. The Secretary- General condemned that attack.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“As efforts continue to solidify the ceasefire in Gaza, it is critical to accelerate progress on the ground in the West Bank. In this connection, we note with concern that Israeli forces have stepped up their military operations throughout the West Bank since 19 June. The IDF closed down and seized equipment of alleged Hamas-affiliated institutions in Nablus, including schools, medical centres, media outlets and civic associations. Israel has outlawed 36 international non-governmental organizations, charging them with fundraising for Hamas. Israeli troops raided the Nablus municipality, arrested elected Palestinian Authority officials and ordered the closure of Nablus' main shopping mall.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“The United Nations has asked the Government of Israel to facilitate the resumption of priority projects as a matter of urgency, and Prime Minister Olmert, in his discussions with the Secretary-General, has undertaken to consider that matter carefully. President Abbas continued wide-ranging consultations on the basis of his 5 June speech, which called for national dialogue to implement the Yemeni initiative. Both the Secretary-General and Special Coordinator Serry have underlined their support for President Abbas' initiative for progress towards the goal of reunification of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank within the framework of the legitimate Palestinian Authority. The members of the League of Arab States will have a leading role to play in facilitating such efforts.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“08-43261 On 17 July, Israeli officials informed their counterparts in the Palestinian Authority that they would increase the amount of fuel being allowed into Gaza. That is encouraging and necessary, as the amount of fuel has remained substantially lower than the actual needs. Between 27 June and 20 July, only 17 per cent of daily needs of petrol, 57 per cent of diesel, 40 per cent of cooking gas and 81 per cent of industrial gas requirements were met. The Gaza Electricity Company continues to operate at less than 70 per cent of its full capacity. The hardships caused by that policy have been reported in past briefings. United Nations Special Coordinator Serry visited the Gaza Strip on 10 July to explore suitable ways to resume stalled projects, including United Nations projects, as requested by the Quartet.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“I am pleased to report that the number of truckloads entering the Gaza Strip through the Sufa and Karni crossings increased by 54 per cent during the four weeks following the ceasefire, as compared to the month before. Imports of cement increased substantially and met Gazan requirements for the reporting period. There has generally been a slight increase in the import of non-food commodities. We welcome that improvement, but note that current import levels stand at approximately 30 per cent of the level before June 2007. The continued lack of many raw materials and the prohibition against exports preclude any significant economic recovery. Approximately 95 per cent of local industrial establishments remain closed.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“Palestinian militants fired 7 rockets and 10 mortars at Israel, which resulted in no casualties. No IDF air strikes or incursions were reported. Hamas is communicating to the public in Gaza its support for the calm and has detained individuals involved in firing mortars. However, 9 Palestinians were killed and 29 injured by internal violence, reckless handling of weaponry and tunnel collapses along the Gaza-Egypt border. Building on the ceasefire, Egypt continues to work on an agreement to exchange the captured Israeli soldier, Gilad Shalit, for a number of Palestinian prisoners currently held by Israel. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has still not been provided with access to Corporal Shalit after more than two years in captivity.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“They underscored their determination to make progress and reach an agreement. However, some significant gaps reportedly remain, and in discussions with Prime Minister Olmert and President Abbas in Paris, the Secretary-General emphasized the need to press ahead with bilateral talks with the goal of overcoming all outstanding differences. It is nevertheless encouraging that today, for the first time, Israeli President Peres hosted President Abbas in his residence in Jerusalem. In Gaza and Israel, the security situation has improved, as the Egyptian-mediated ceasefire that entered into effect last month has generally been upheld. During the reporting period, one Palestinian civilian was killed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) near the Gaza-Israel border, and two others were injured.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“Mr. Pascoe: During a month that saw a number of encouraging developments across the Middle East, we are particularly heartened by the progress in Lebanon, where a major step forward was taken with the announcement of a national unity Government. It is also positive that the indirect talks between Israel and the Syrian Arab Republic continue. In Gaza, the ceasefire has held and there was a marked decline in violence. We are concerned, however, about the lack of improvement in the situation on the ground in the West Bank. The political process begun at Annapolis continues, with regular meetings and discussions of the core issues taking place at various levels, both in the 08-4326] region and elsewhere. Prime Minister Olmert and President Abbas held a meeting on the margins of the Paris Summit for the Mediterranean on 13 July.”
2008-07-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5940 (2008) · source
“It is now time to redouble efforts to assist in facilitating the immediate start of a period for establishing conditions necessary for free and fair elections and to help restore security and the rule of law in the country. We believe it is clear that a winner- takes-all approach will not bring peace and stability to the country. All forms of violence, intimidation and obstruction must stop. I reiterate the Secretary-General's call on both parties to resume talks immediately to seek a peaceful resolution of this crisis for the good of all Zimbabweans. Zimbabwe must have a credible process in place so that the run-off election can produce a legitimate outcome in the eyes of the Zimbabwean people and the world community.”
2008-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5919 (2008) · source
“Furthermore, a group of 40 prominent African former heads of State and other personalities have signed an open letter calling for an end to the current political violence in Zimbabwe, declaring their concern at the reports of intimidation, harassment and violence and saying that it is vital that appropriate conditions be created so that the presidential run-off can be conducted in a peaceful, free and fair manner. The Secretary-General recognizes the continuing efforts by SADC to facilitate a solution in Zimbabwe and the leading role that South Africa has played in this effort, and he has been encouraging and supporting these. He welcomes the decision by SADC to hold an emergency meeting on Zimbabwe and gives his support to SADC and African Union measures to address this pressing situation.”
2008-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5919 (2008) · source
“SADC Chair and Zambian President Mwanawasa has called for the postponement of elections to allow for the establishment of conditions suitable for free and fair elections in accordance with Zimbabwean law, the SADC principles and the Charter and conventions of the African Union. Angolan President Dos Santos, the Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security, has also urged President Mugabe to observe a spirit of tolerance and respect for differences and to cease all forms of intimidation and political violence.”
2008-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5919 (2008) · source
“The United Nations is prepared to work urgently with SADC and the African Union to help resolve this political impasse. The Secretary- General's envoy, Assistant Secretary-General Menkerios, remains in the region to assist. Africans have made very clear their concerns regarding the situation in Zimbabwe. The voice of African leaders has grown stronger, and the region is mobilizing to solve this challenging crisis. President Mbeki of South Africa, who has been mandated by SADC to mediate the crisis, has declared that the political leadership of Zimbabwe should get together and find a solution to the challenges faced by the country.”
2008-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5919 (2008) · source
“In the interim, he has indicated that the MDC remains open to participating in any future elections under conditions which are consistent with SADC norms and principles governing democratic elections. As I stated earlier, conditions for a free and fair run-off election do not exist at present. It is our view that the election should be postponed for an appropriate period. The Government must ensure that conditions are in place for a credible process to take place. Given the gravity of the situation, the parties should immediately engage in talks to establish a period during which conditions for free and fair elections can be created. I reiterate the Secretary- General's offer of his good offices in support of such efforts, as appropriate.”
2008-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5919 (2008) · source
“He argued that there is evidence of widespread State-sponsored violence, that he had been unable to campaign, that the MDC has lost confidence in the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission since the institution has been staffed with war veterans and youth militia and that the political leadership of ZANU-PF and war veterans have made public 3 statements openly declaring that they would defy an MDC victory. The MDC called on SADC, the African Union and the United Nations to intervene urgently to restore the rule of law, peace and conditions for a free and fair election. Mr. Tsvangirai further advised that the MDC would make public its next move on Wednesday, 25 June.”
2008-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5919 (2008) · source