Press encounter with CNN upon arrival at UNHQ, (unofficial transcript)

Q: Before you go to Geneva I thought we would ask a few questions. What is your assessment of how the war is going - there are various polls that say people are losing enthusiasm, some say it's a stalemate, and some say it's war, that this is what happens - what is you seasoned assessment of the situation?

SG: Well, I don't have any insight into the war effort - the strategic or the tactical reasons behind it. But let me say that I have also heard some of the comments that you have referred to, and also reactions in the region. But without firm knowledge of what is going on, and without appreciation of what those organizing the campaign are trying to do, it is difficult for me to make a judgment.

Q: Should there be a bombing halt for humanitarian efforts to get in to help the people?

SG: I think what is important from our point of view is that we need to see the operation ended as soon as possible so that we can step up our humanitarian effort, get in as much food as we can, and prepare for the winter. We are getting in quite a bit, despite the military operations. I think that is a credit to the courage of our staff, and also to the truck drivers who are prepared to take the risks.

Q: How long a halt should there be?

SG: Well, I haven't referred to a halt. What I am saying is that we would want to see this whole military operation ended as soon as possible, particularly the air action, so that we can begin to move in our supplies.

Q: Do you accept the Pentagon's statement that now they bombed the Red Cross Shelter because Taliban was stealing food, not that it was a stray missile?

SG: I think in these sorts of operations, every effort should be made to avoid humanitarian casualties, and to avoid hitting supplies which are needed to help the civilian population. I do not have the details, but I think one cannot condone or accept that Red Cross warehouses could be hit.

Q: The U.S. was talking about another security alert - again we ask the question, are you comfortable with the safety of the UN organization building here and the staff?

SG: I think our security staff are doing the best they can and are trying to keep their ears to the ground, listening to others for information, for intelligence. I feel quite secure here. I am not unduly worried and we are taking all the steps we can to secure the building and reassure the staff.

Q: Should Taliban members be part of any new government?

SG: I think that is a decision for the Afghans to make. We have indicated that we would want to see a broad-based Afghan government. Mr. Brahimi is there talking to all concerned and he is making an assessment which he will share with me when he gets back here. Then we will make a judgment. But who joins a broad-based Afghan government is a decision for the Afghans to make.

Q: Last light question. You are a Yankees fan. You are leaving town. Are they going to rally and win this World Series?

SG: It ain't over until it's over. It's only two games now, and I think they stand a chance. Q: Thank you. Happy trails. *****