Mr. President,
When UNAVEM III was established two years ago, it was envisaged that the Lusaka Protocol would be fully implemented by the beginning of 1997. Despite considerable progress in the peace process, all commitments under the Protocol have still not been fulfilled. A number of political and military aspects remain to be implemented. Sweden urges both parties, and in particular UNITA, to fulfill all their obligations under the Peace Accords.
The United Nations has played a crucial role in the Angolan peace process. The Organisation has an important role to play in seeing the peace process through and in consolidating the gains achieved so far. However, we must remember that it is the Angolan parties which bear the ultimate, responsibility for restoring peace in Angola. The success of the peace process requires strong determination and efforts to build mutual trust .
Today, the Security Council is sending a clear message to Angola. The failure by UNITA to implement fully the conclusions of the meeting of the Joint Commission on 23 January 1997 is cause for deep concern. All UNITA National Assembly members and officials designated to the Government of National Unity and Reconciliation must arrive in Luanda and assume their respective posts. The Government of National Unity and Reconciliation must be established without further delay.
The completion of the process of selection and incorporation of the UNITA troops into the Angolan Armed Forces is another essential component in the process ahead, as is a successful and orderly demobilisation. The international community must continue to extend its full support for demobilisation efforts, not least the efforts directed at the demobilisation and reintegration of child soldiers. We have an unequivocal responsibility towards these children, the most vulnerable victims of conflict: to recognise their plight, to condemn and prevent the exploitation of children in conflicts, and to do what is in our power to help provide a future for those already exposed to the scourge of war.
Sweden is a contributor to UNAVEM III. The pace of the planned withdrawal of the United Nations formed military units must in our view take into account both the short extension of the UNAVEM III mandate and the situation on the ground.
Sweden's long-standing commitment to the peace process in Angola stands firm. We have contributed military observers, civilian police and demining specialists to UNAVEM 111, and made significant financial contributions to support Angola's transition from a war-torn country. It is
Our firm hope that the next time we discuss Angola in the Security Council it will be on the basis of definite progress in the peace process.
In view of the fact that the Government has not yet been formed, Sweden agrees with the Secretary-General that the mandate of UNAVEM III should be extended by one month. We will vote in favour of the draft before the Council today.
In conclusion, Mr President, allow me to express the appreciation of my Government to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, to the three observer States, Portugal, the Russian Federation and the United States, and to the personnel of UNAVEM III for their efforts to assist the parties in advancing the peace process.
Thank you, Mr. President.