S/PV.5304 Security Council

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on the agenda. The Council is meeting in accordance with the understanding reached in its prior consultation. Members of the Council have before them document S/2005/710, which contains the text of a draft resolution submitted by Denmark, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the United States of America. It is my understanding that the Council is ready to proceed to the vote on the draft resolution before it. Unless I hear any objections, 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, Argentina, Benin, Brazil, China, Denmark, France, Greece, Japan, Philippines, Romania, Russian Federation, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Republic of Tanzania, United States of America

There were 15 votes in favour. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as resolution 1638 (2005). I will now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements in explanation of vote.

Brazil joined the consensus regarding the adoption of resolution 1638 (2005). Our vote reflects our firm commitment to the settlement of all conflicts in Africa. However, we emphasize that the promotion of the rule of law in a country should be exercised primarily by national institutions, with international assistance if so requested. Adherence to the rule of law should be based on strict observance of the domestic legal framework and of international law.

Argentina has participated in the consensus in the adoption of resolution 1638 (2005) on the understanding that any process of post-conflict peacebuilding — in this case in Liberia — necessarily must be conducted with respect for the law and for justice. Impunity sends a bad sign for the future. It is an element that weakens and undermines a genuine process of national reconciliation. Peace can never really be achieved until those who have committed the gravest crimes against humankind are brought to justice. It is for this reason that we support the mandate that this resolution gives to the United Nations Mission in Liberia, within full respect for the sovereignty and legal order of Liberia and in coordination with the Government of that country, to apprehend Mr. Charles Taylor and to facilitate his transfer to the Special Court for Sierra Leone for prosecution in the event that he returns to Liberia. I wish to reaffirm our country’s position of defending the rule of law and the principles of international law in all circumstances and without exception.

There are no further speakers on my list. The Security Council has thus concluded the present stage of its consideration of the item on its agenda. The Council will remain seized of the matter.