By Prensa Latina
United Nations : UN representative in the small African nation Guinea-Bissau, Shola Omoregie, expressed satisfaction over the announcement of legislative elections here on November 16.
President Joao Bernardo Viera announced the elections during an open debate of the Security Council regarding the situation of the former Portuguese colony.
In his presentation over the latest events in the African nation, Omoregie added that preparations are moving slowly due to a lack of resources.
“Legislative elections represent a high point in the level of democratic maturity,” he said, adding that it was necessary that the international community be committed to continue helping the country to overcome its social problems.
On the other hand, the Secretary General Representative explained that the government of Guinea-Bissau is concerned over the growing threat of terrorism and has requested international aid to efficiently control its borders.
Guinea-Bissau is recovering from a civil war that caused thousands of deaths and displacement.
The UN maintains an office of Support for the Consolidation of Peace since March 1999 to deal with the main challenges and priorities to prevent a reappearance of violence.
According to Omoregie, the announcement of future legislative elections announced by President Vieira “will undoubtedly reduce tensions significantly, a situation that was increasing in the past few days.”
The UN representative also noted the Congress of African Parties for Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde on April 6.
In his report to the Security Council, Omoregie added that an agreement was signed between his government and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for Post-Conflict Emergency Assistance.
According to the UN official, “evident progress was registered on the part of the government in its relations with the international community, during the first quarter of 2008.
Referring to this point the report notes the arrival of technical assistance from the European Union linked to programs of reform security and development.