The members of the Security Council have discussed the interim report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Tajikistan.
The members of the Council noted that some progress has been achieved in the process of national reconciliation, while pointing out that the situation in the country remains precarious. International assistance continues to be needed. The Council members encourage the Tajik parties to make good use of the continuing international backing for the peace process, to increase their efforts to implement the General Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and National Accord in Tajikistan and to refrain from any actions contrary to this General Agreement.
The members of the Council welcome the intention of the Secretary-General to take additional steps to ensure safety of the United Nations Mission of Observers in Tajikistan (UNMOT) personnel. The Council members stress that the main responsibility for the security of UNMOT lies with the Tajik sides themselves.
The Council members urge the Government of Tajikistan, in cooperation with United Tajik Opposition (UTO), to accelerate the investigation of the murder of four members of UNMOT on 20 July 1998 and to see to it that the persons who committed these crimes are punished.
The members of the Council express condolences to the United States of America at the death of an American national, member of the UNMOT security detail. They urge the Tajik authorities to conduct a thorough investigation of this incident.
The members of the Council express solidarity with UNMOT personnel in carrying out their noble and difficult mission.