Summary: May 28, 2004: Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union, welcoming the decision of the UN Security Council on 21 May 2004 to establish an UN peacekeeping mission in Burundi (ONUB) and renewing the Union's call for intensified efforts to ensure a successful completion of the transition process in Burundi (Brussels)
The European Union welcomes UN Security Council resolution 1545 of 21 May 2004 and its decision to deploy a peacekeeping operation in Burundi (ONUB) in support of the efforts of the Burundian people to restore lasting peace and to bring about national reconciliation as provided for under the Arusha Peace Agreement.
The European Union wishes the operation success in the execution of its mandate and it assures the UN of its support for this operation, reinforcing the prospects for peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region in general and in Burundi in particular. It takes this opportunity to express its sincere appreciation for the efforts made by the Governments of South Africa, Mozambique and Ethiopia as well as by the African Union through AMIB in assuring peace and stability during the past months of
Transition and preparing for this new phase in the Burundi peace process.
The European Union seizes this opportunity to welcome the efforts already made by so many in Burundi to make the Transition work and urges all parties in the Burundi peace process to continue the dynamic of the Arusha Peace Accord, to respect all subsequent agreements, to implement the required reforms, in particular within the security sector, and to prepare for elections in a spirit of serenity and mutual respect.
The European Union strongly supports the UN's call for all parties to observe an immediate ceasefire, and once more makes an urgent appeal to the Palipehutu-FNL to seize this opportunity for peace, to bring an end to armed opposition and join the other parties in a negotiated settlement.
The European Union encourages the Regional Initiative, in particular the Governments of Uganda, Tanzania and South Africa, to continue their efforts to support the Transition in Burundi and to bring an end to conflict in favour of an all-inclusive cease-fire and comprehensive peace agreement.
The European Union and its member States reassure all parties in the peace process of their continued close attention and they reiterate their support for the challenges confronting Burundi in the months to come, in particular as far as security sector reform, DDR and the election process are concerned. They furthermore reconfirm the commitments made at the Brussels Partner Forum in January 2004 to accompany Burundi in its project of reconstruction and economic and social development.
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