UNITED NATIONS

28 January 1999
Press Release
SC/6634

SECURITY COUNCIL EXTENDS WESTERN SAHARA MISSION UNTIL 11 FEBRUARY

19990128

The Security Council this morning extended the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) until 11 February.

Unanimously adopting resolution 1224 (1999), the Council asked the Secretary-General to keep it informed of all significant developments in the implementation of the Settlement Plan and the agreements reached between the parties -- the Government of Morocco and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Saguia el-Hamra and Rio de Oro (POLISARIO) -- and, as appropriate, on the continuing viability of MINURSO's mandate.

MINURSO was established in accordance with the Settlement Plan of 30 August 1988 to undertake a number of tasks, including monitoring a ceasefire, verifying the reduction of Moroccan troops in Western Sahara and ensuring the confinement of Moroccan and POLISARIO troops to designated locations. It was also to identify and register qualified voters for the referendum to be held in the territory.

The meeting, which began at 11:46 a.m., was adjourned at 11:48 a.m.

Text of Resolution

The text of resolution 1224 (1999) reads as follows:

"The Security Council,

"Recalling all its previous resolutions on the question of the Western Sahara,

"1. Decides to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) until 11 February 1999:

"2. Requests the Secretary-General to keep the Council informed of all significant developments in the implementation of the Settlement Plan and the agreements reached between the parties, and, as appropriate, on the continuing viability of the mandate of MINURSO;

"3. Decides to remain seized of the matter."

Secretary-General's Report

The Secretary-General's most recent report on Western Sahara (S/1999/78) had

not yet been issued at press time.