SG: Ladies and Gentlemen, I am very happy to be here in Costa Rica for my first visit. Costa Rica and the UN work extremely well together and is one of the dynamic member states of the Organization. It is also the Headquarters of the UN University for Peace. And I look forward to discussing issues of common interest with the President and the Ministers and also take a bit of rest before I continue my journey.

Q: Mr. Annan, Why has the United Nations been unable to solve the conflict in Israel?

SG: That's a very straightforward question. I think it's a very complex crisis and we are all working very hard to try and pull the parties from the abyss. I have also challenged the leaders to lead their people from desperation and despair. And we are working very closely with the quartet -- the quartet is the United States, the European Union, the Russian Federation and the UN. And we are working together to try and end this tragedy. And of course recently we have a very helpful initiative from Crown Prince Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, and with General Zinni on the ground and Vice-President Cheney is also there. All these international efforts I hope will yield results.

Q: ... the work of Costa Rica in human rights?

SG: Human rights is important, not only for Costa Rica but all around the world. And I always encourage the Government and the people at large and civil society to become engaged in strengthening human rights. And it is important that human rights are respected. And it's not only the work of the Government, but individuals must also know their rights, and we must all work to foster an atmosphere where we respect these rights and support each other. Thank you.*****