New York

19 November 2008

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General - Declaration of a unilateral cease-fire in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo by the CNDP

The Secretary-General welcomes the announcement on 18 November of a military pullback by the National Congress in Defense of the People (CNDP) and the opening of humanitarian corridors to allow unhindered access to people in need in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. In this context, the Secretary-General appreciates the efforts exerted by his Special Envoy, Olusegun Obasanjo.

He calls on the parties to observe the cessation of hostilities and to guarantee safe passage of humanitarian assistance as they continue with the efforts to find a political solution to the crisis.