1 November 2000

The General Assembly, on the recommendation of the Security Council, adopted a resolution admitting the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to membership of the United Nations. The President said that the admission of Federal Republic of Yugoslavia into the family of nations if of great significance, as it strengthens the universality of the United Nations and thus enhances its legitimacy and effectiveness. The full text of his remarks is available on the "Statements and Messages" page. Photograph from the flaigraising ceremony outside the UN Headquartes can be viewed on the "Photos" page.General Assembly also discussed the causes of conflict and the promotion of durable peace and sustainable development in Africa.

The President had a meeting with Mr. Frank Smyth of the Mission of Ireland, coordinator of the negotiations in the Fifth Committee on the regular budget scale of assessments, and Mr. Mark Gilpin, Chief of the Contribution Service of the UN Secretariat. The discussion centered on the ongoing negotiations in the Fifth Committee.

The President met with the Executive Director of World Food Programme (WFP), Ms. Catherine Bertini. She briefed the President on the operations of WFP and on co-operation between the Rome-based institutions of the United Nations. She also mentioned what her organization is doing to implement the Millennium Declaration. Photograph of their meeting can be viewed on the "Photos" page.

The President also had a private lunch with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, H.E. Mr. Kofi Annan, with a wide range of issues being discussed.