United Nations Radio

The UN Security Council voted unanimously Tuesday to extend the mandate of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti -MINUSTAH- for one year until October 15, 2009 with the intention of further renewal.

The council called on MINUSTAH to support the political process under way and, in cooperation with the government, promote an all-inclusive political dialogue and national reconciliation, and to provide logistical and security assistance for the upcoming elections.

The council also requested MINUSTAH to continue its support of the Haitian National Police and remain engaged in helping the government reform and restructure the force.

It invited member States, including neighboring and regional countries, to engage with the government in addressing cross-border illicit trafficking of persons, drugs, arms and other illegal activities and to contribute to the strengthening of the Haitian National Police in those areas.

The Council strongly condemned grave violations against children affected by armed violence and requested the UN mission to continue to promote and protect the rights of women and children.

This is Donn Bobb for United Nations Radio.

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