New York

19 April 2001

Remarks upon arrival at UNHQ, (unofficial transcript)

Kofi Annan, Former Secretary-General

Q: Your thoughts on Burundi, first of all, the coup was obviously averted there, but it suddenly draws everyone's attention to the problem that some might say is more toxic in some ways than the [Democratic Republic of the] Congo.

SG: I think we are all relieved that the coup did not succeed because the OAU itself had indicated that coup-makers would no longer be welcome in Africa. And in all their meetings they have refused to encourage ... [Sound system failed.]

Q: I'm sorry, Sir, I apologize. This coup that's been averted, there's been a lot of attention drawn suddenly. This is an on-going problem, potentially more serious than Congo.

SG: I am relieved that the coup did fail. As you know, President [Nelson] Mandela has been working with the parties in order to resolve the conflict in Burundi. A peace agreement had been signed, although some of the rebels had not signed it and are still engaged in armed conflict, and he had been working on a ceasefire with them and to get them to join the process. I think this coup, if it had succeeded, would have complicated the situation further. So we are all relieved that it has not succeeded, but it also underscores the work we have to do to try and calm the situation in Burundi.

Q: On the [Democratic Republic of the] Congo report, this is on the resources, there is somewhat of a predictable response: Congo endorses, the nations named deny. This is obviously up to the Security Council now to take some sort of action. Are you planning to talk to [Ugandan President Yoweri] Museveni, [Rwandan President Paul] Kagame, those named countries involved?

SG: I think I'm waiting for the Council action first, and I think the Council now has a report and will be deliberating on it. Following the Council discussions, one will decide what action needs to be taken.

Q: Quick question on the Middle East, where words really do seem to be failing at this point.

SG: I know. It is a very dangerous and explosive situation and we are trying to work with all the parties concerned within and outside the region, and countries with influence on the region, to try and calm the violence, end the violence, and move the process on to the negotiating table, on all aspects of it -- on the violence, on the economic deprivation, and on the political process. Thank you. *****