Tuesday, 13 June, 2006

I would also like to thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Ian Martin, for his briefing on the latest developments in Timor-Leste. We also appreciate the presentation made by the Permanent Representative of Timor-Leste.

Greece fully aligns itself with the statement to be made shortly by the Permanent Representative of Austria, on behalf of the European Union.

Mr. President,

The Greek Government deplores the unfortunate violent incidents and expresses its deep condolences to the Government and people of Timor-Leste for the loss of so many lives and the enormous destruction of properties.   

We regret that such a short period of time was enough to overturn successes and gains of the past four years. The clear manifestation of the fragility of the East Timorese political, security and social situation is more than worrisome and deserves the full attention of the Security Council.

We commend the immediate dispatch and deployment of defense and police forces by Portugal, Australia, New Zealand and Malaysia, in response to the relevant request of the President and Government of Timor-Leste.     

Furthermore, we are very pleased to see all the efforts undertaken by UNOTIL, especially with regard to the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis. On the other hand, we regret the fact that UNOTIL’s mandate is coming to an end under such dire circumstances.

There is no doubt that Timor-Leste needs a new reinforced Mission of the United Nations so that the defense, security and justice institutions be able to regain their functional capacity and the East Timorese people be guaranteed a safe and peaceful everyday life. It is also important that all recent crimes and abuses be brought to justice.     

Greece pays particular attention to the assessment of the situation made by the Secretary-General, as presented today by Mr. Ian Martin, as well as to his proposals regarding a possible renewal of UNOTIL’s mandate and the United Nations follow-up presence in the country. We also give due consideration to the views of the Government of Timor-Leste, especially in the context of the preparation and holding of presidential and parliamentary elections next year. 

Under the current circumstances, the main task of the Security Council is to safeguard the viability of the democratic institutions of Timor-Leste. Greece looks forward to working with the other members of the Council towards achieving consensus in formulating the most appropriate Resolution concerning the UN Mission that will succeed UNOTIL.

In concluding, we hope that political reconciliation and disarmament of all illegal groups can be achieved in the near future, paving the way to the resumption of efforts for rebuilding this young nation and putting back in track the so much needed development projects.  

I thank you Mr. President.

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