Security Council calls for end to hostilities

The UN Security Council has called for the immediate suspension of hostilities in Burundi, expressing concern over the continuing conflict there. In a statement issued on Friday, the Council reiterated its support for the Arusha accord and Nelson Mandela’s mediation efforts, and called on the armed groups to enter into negotiations. It encouraged Secretary-General Kofi Annan, through his representatives, to continue to engage the armed groups and contribute to coordinated efforts to bring about a political settlement of the conflict.

On the humanitarian front, the Council expressed grave concern over continuing human rights abuses and violations of humanitarian law in Burundi, and urged respect for such rights. “In particular, it urges the belligerents to commit themselves immediately to the protection of civilians, in particular their life, physical integrity and the means necessary for their survival,” the statement said. The Council called on donors to increase humanitarian and development assistance to the people of Burundi, in keeping with pledges by the international community at the Paris Donor Conference on 11-12 December 2000.