S/PV.5833 Security Council

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. The Council is meeting in accordance with the understanding reached in its prior consultations. Following consultations among members of the Security Council, I have been authorized to make the following statement on behalf of the Council: “The Security Council condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempt on the life of the President of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, during an attack at his residence on 11 February 2008, and wishes him a speedy recovery. The Council also condemns the attack on the convoy of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, Xanana Gusmão. These represent an attack on the legitimate institutions of Timor-Leste. “The Security Council calls on the Government of Timor-Leste to bring to justice those responsible for this heinous act, and urges all parties in Timor-Leste to cooperate actively with the authorities in this regard. “The Security Council further calls upon all people in Timor-Leste to remain calm, exercise restraint and maintain stability in the country. The Security Council urges all parties in Timor-Leste to resolve any disputes through political and peaceful means within the framework of its democratic institutions. “The Security Council reaffirms its full support to the Government and people of Timor- Leste in their continued efforts to strengthen democracy and ensure public security and maintain stability in their country. “The Security Council expresses its full support for the work of the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste and for the continued deployment of the international security force in response to the requests of the Government of Timor-Leste. “The Security Council requests the Secretary-General to report on developments in Timor-Leste, as necessary. The Security Council will continue to monitor closely the situation in Timor-Leste and will act, as appropriate.” This statement will be issued as a document of the Security Council under the symbol S/PRST/2008/5. The Security Council has thus concluded the present stage of its consideration of the item on its agenda.