UN Security Council concerned at “precarious situation”

“Recognising the importance of the Central African Republic (CAR) to regional stability,” the UN Security Council on Tuesday expressed “its deep concern at the precarious situation in the country and urged the government to take steps to end persisting acts of violence there.” Current Council President Ambassador Wang Yingfan of China told the 15-member body the present climate was not conducive to encouraging the return home of thousands of Central Africans who were displaced or sought refuge in neighbouring countries as a result of the attempted coup at the end of May. The Council also reiterated its condemnation of the coup attempt. In its statement, the Council asked Secretary General Kofi Annan to prepare by 30 September recommendations on how the UN could further contribute to the recovery of the CAR. The Council asked that the recommendations focus on strengthening the UN presence in the country, particularly in human rights monitoring and assistance of the judicial system. The Council also urged the UN to look into providing experts in public administration and finances, as well as continued restructuring of the country’s armed forces and the implementation of an effective arms-collection programme. “The Security Council stresses that an enhanced international effort will be necessary to help in the recovery of the Central African Republic,” the statement said.