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SLUG: 2-283372 UN/Afghanistan (L)
DATE: NOTE NUMBER: |
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DATE=11/20/01 TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT TITLE=U-N/AFGHANISTAN TALKS (L ONLY) NUMBER=2-283372 BYLINE=BRECK ARDERY DATELINE=UNITED NATIONS CONTENT= VOICED AT: INTRO: The chief United Nations representative for Afghanistan, Lakhdar Brahimi, has confirmed that talks aimed at establishing an interim government in Afghanistan will start on Monday. V-O-A Correspondent Breck reports from the United Nations. TEXT: After meeting with the U-N Security Council in a closed session, Mr. Brahimi told reporters said the meeting will be held in Berlin, Germany, with participants gathering over the weekend, and formal talks starting Monday. The talks, which will include representatives of all major groups in Afghanistan, except the Taleban, will focus on how to set up an interim administration to run the country. Mr. Brahimi, who will help coordinate the talks, expressed optimism about the outcome. /// BRAHIMI ACT /// We are rather encouraged by what we have heard from the various parties, and we hope this will be the beginning we have been looking for to end the conflict in Afghanistan, and start building some new institutions for the country. Of course, the Afghans themselves must do that with support from the United Nations. /// END ACT /// The talks in Germany are expected to last at least a couple of weeks. /// REST OPT /// Mr. Brahimi was asked about a request from Taleban commanders in the northern Afghan city of Kunduz that they be allowed to surrender to the United Nations. Mr. Brahimi said that is not an option. /// BRAHIMI ACT /// It is evident that the United Nations cannot (accept a surrender). We have no means. We are not present on the ground, and simply cannot, unfortunately, accede to this request. /// END ACT /// Mr. Brahimi indicated the Taleban in Kunduz should surrender to the Northern Alliance, saying that the United Nations has urged the Northern Alliance to respect its obligations under international humanitarian law and to treat the situation "with as much humanity as possible." (Signed) NEB/UN/BA/TW |
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