Mr. President,
In recent weeks, a break-through has taken place in the Angolan peace process. The formation of the Government of Unity and National Reconciliation, as well as the installation of the UNITA deputies in the National Assembly, are vital steps towards the fulfillment of the Lusaka Protocol. Sweden also welcomes the agreement reached on the special status of the leader of UNITA as the leader of the largest opposition party.
A stable political environment is essential for social and economic rehabilitation and long-term reconciliation. Further strengthening the democratic process in Angola is therefore of great significance. An exchange between the Swedish and Angolan Parliaments has been initiated to support this process.
Important political and military elements of the peace accords remain to be fulfilled. In particular, it is imperative that the incorporation of selected UNITA soldiers into the Angolan Armed Forces and the implementation of the demobilization plan be completed without further delay.
The normalization of the State administration throughout the country is another important issue. It will require cooperation on a national, regional and local level. All efforts should be made to complete this process while UNAVEM III's formed military units remain in Angola.
The role of the United Nations in promoting and facilitating the Angolan peace process will continue to be vital. United Nations involvement is needed to see the peace process through to its conclusion and to help consolidate the progress which has been achieved.
Sweden will vote in favour of the draft resolution before the Security Council today, extending the mandate of UNAVEM III to 30 June, 1997. We also support the proposal of the Secretary-General that UNAVEM III be succeeded by an observer mission. The transition between UNAVEM III and its successor should be a smooth one, and we therefore fully support the intention of the Secretary-General to begin preparations for the change in the composition and focus of the United Nations presence in Angola.
As we move into this period of transition, the phasing down of UNAVEM III's military units must continue to be adapted to developments on the ground. We must also bear in mind the continued need for the security of all UN personnel to be assured.
For its part, Sweden has contributed military observers, civilian police and demining experts to UNAVEM III. Angola also remains one of the major recipients of Swedish assistance in the development, demining and humanitarian fields.
Sweden will give a positive response to the Consolidated Appeal for Angola launched recently by the Secretary-General. We urge other States to do the same.
Contributions to the appeal are needed for the successful implementation of the demobilization and reintegration plan.
We must take this opportunity to build on the progress already made and move ahead to create the foundation for durable peace in Angola. Having come so far, the former adversaries should continue on the road to peace and fulfill their remaining commitments under the peace accords. The ultimate responsibility for restoring peace remains with the Angolans themselves. The international community must, however, continue to lend its support to what remains to be accomplished. Sweden stands firm in its long-standing commitment to the peace process in Angola.
In conclusion, allow me to reiterate our gratitude to the Secretary-General, his Special representative, Maitre Blondin Beye, and the three observer States - Portugal, the Russian Federation and the United States - for their efforts to assist the peace process in Angola.
Thank you, Mr. President