Ethiopia/Eritrea

The Secretary-General presented to the members of the Security Council a progress report as of 19 June

2001 (S/2001/608) on the situation between Ethiopia -Eritrea.

The Council members noted the Secretary-General’s observations that on-the-ground situation has remained

generally calm and commended the parties and UNMEE for progress achieved so far. They viewed that

establishment of Temporary Security Zone (TSZ) and functioning of Boundary Commission and Claims

Commission testified commitment of both countries to the peace process. In that regard, the members

strongly supported SRSG Legawaila’s continuing efforts.

However, the Security Council members expressed its serious concern over excessive deployment of Eritrean

militia and policemen in the TSZ as well as the parties’ failure to agree on the precise boundaries of the TSZ.

The members also urged the parties to strictly abide by with the final map that UNMEE has provided to

them.

Members of the Security Council reiterated its call on the countries to early establish a direct air corridor

between Asmara and Addis Ababa. At the same time, both parties, particularly Eritrea, are urged to ensure

UNMEE’s freedom of movement. Council members also urged Eritrea to sign the status-of-forces agreement

and stressed that both governments should fulfil their financial obligations to the Boundary Commission’s

work.

Noting the progress made in demining, the Council members called upon both Eritrea and Ethiopia and the

international community to contribute more – financially and otherwise – to ensure full demining of TSZ

and its adjacent areas for safety of returning internally displaced persons (IDPs) and peacekeepers.

In view of the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Eritrea and Ethiopia, the Security Council members

urged the international community to respond generously to the United Nations Country Teams’ appeal for

humanitarian assistance.

The Council members encouraged the parties, in cooperation with UNMEE, to explore and pursue a range of

confidence building measures and to approach the peace process in a constructive manner without resorting

to rhetoric.