Statement [on the item entitled "The question concerning Haiti"]
Statement on behalf of the Security Council, at the 3866th meeting, 25 Mar. 1998, in connection with prior consultations held among Council members on the item entitled "The question concerning Haiti" / President, Security Council

Agrees with the Secretary-General in his assessment of the Haitian National Police (HNP) in S/1998/144 and expresses the hope that HNP achievements will be matched by progress in other areas, including the development of a functioning judicial system, and in this regard, recognizes the importance of judicial reform; reaffirms that further assistance to HNP, should it be needed, should be provided; reaffirms also that the people and Government of Haiti bear the ultimate responsibility for national reconciliation, the maintenance of a secure and stable environment, the administration of justice, and the reconstruction of their country and emphasizes the imiportance of Haiti's continuing to settle its contentions issued peacefully and democratically; stresses that it is of the utmost importance that the next parliamentary and local elections in Haiti be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner in order to allow the broadest possible voter participation, consistent with Haitian law and urges the international community to be ready to provide electoral assistance as may be requested; stresses that a sustained commitment by the international community and the international financial institutions, as well as the relevant UN bodies, to assist and support the economic, social and institutional development in Haiti is indispensable for long-term sustainable development in the country.

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Statement made on behalf of the Security Council, at the 3866th meeting, 25 Mar. 1998, in connection with the Council's consideration of the item entitled "The question concerning Haiti".