Annan warns of “humanitarian catastrophe”

Welcoming Mandela’s appointment as mediator, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan told the session that of the many crises and conflicts affecting the continent, none was perhaps more urgent than Burundi. “Certainly in no other country is it so easy to imagine a repetition of what we have all sworn must never be repeated: ethnic killing on a genocidal scale,” he said. He reiterated his opposition to the government’s regroupment policy, warning of a “humanitarian catastrophe”. Annan also urged the international community to assist Burundi, noting that diplomatic activity must be combined with economic assistance. “I urge all parties to cooperate with you in seeking a political solution,” he told Mandela. “If they do, I remain hopeful that this time the international community will assist them.” Following Mandela’s address, the Security Council adopted a resolution expressing support for the Arusha peace process and appealing for increased international assistance.