PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE USE – 19 AUGUST 1999

Following discussions in Jakarta on 11 August between the East Timorese leaders, an agreement has been reached to form an East Timorese Consultative Commission.

This Commission, to be inaugurated on 31 August, the day after the vote, will be responsible for fostering reconciliation and cooperation until the result of the vote is implemented.

The Commission will be made up of 25 members. Ten will be nominated by each side and appointed by the Secretary-General, and the remaining five will be appointed by the Secretary-General after discussions with Indonesia, Portugal and the two sides.

Nominations from each side for their 10 members are to be received by UNAMET by 21 August 1999.

The Commission will convene a broader meeting of East Timorese leaders once the result of the ballot is announced to promote a smooth transition and stability in East Timor.