S/PV.284 Security Council

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. The Security Council is meeting today in accordance with the understanding reached in the Council's prior consultations. Members of the Council have before them the following documents: S/20412, which contains the text of a further report of the Secretary-General concerning the implementation of Security Council resolutions 435 (1978) and 439 (1978) concerning the question of Namibia; and S/20457 , which contains the text of an explanatory statement by the Secretary-General concerning his further report. Members of the Council also have before them document S/20466, which contains the text of a draft resolution prepared in the course of the Council's consultations. It is my understanding that the Council is ready to proceed to the vote on the draft resolution before it. Unless I hear any objection, I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. There being no objection, it is so decided. A vote was taken by show of hands. In favour: Algeria, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Malaysia, Nepal, Senegal, Union'of Soviet Socialist Republics, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

There were 15 votes in favour. The draft resolution has therefore been adopted unanimously as resolution 632 (1989). Before I adjourn the meeting allow me to underline briefly the historic importance of this meeting and the significance of the resolution just adopted. Since 1966 the United Nations has assumed legal responsibility for Namibia. !loday we have taken the historic decision towards the fulfilment of that sacred trust. This decision sets in motion the process of transition of Namibia towards independence through free and fair elections under the supervision and control of the United Nations. The agreement to adopt this decision unanimously and without debate underlines the commitment of the Council to early independence of Namibia and its readiness to co-operate with the Secretary-General in carrying out the mandate in accordance with Security Council resolution 435 (1978). The decision also marks the last major step towards decolonization - an area where each member can feel justifiably proud of the achievements of the United Nations. As we rejoice over this decision, I wish to pay a special tribute to the Secretary-General and to all members of the Council, as well as to the representatives of non-aligned and front-line States for their active co-operation and positive contributions. During the process of my consultations I became even more conscious of the unwavering dedication of the Secretary-General to the responsibility of the United Nations over Namibia. We have approved his report as well as his explanatory statement. I wish only to emphasize one 'point that the Secretary-General has repeatedly made: it is necessary for all to co-operate fully with him and his Special Representative in the fulfilment of his mandate to enable Namibia to take its rightful place in the community of independent nations. We look forward to welcoming Namibia as a fellow,member of this nations before long. The Security Council has thus concluded the present stage of its consideration of the item on the agenda. . The meeting rose at 11.45 a.m. (The President) family of