United Nations Radio

The UN Security Council is calling for emergency relief to Haiti, where four people died last week following demonstrations protesting the rising cost of living.

On Tuesday the head of the UN mission in Haiti, Hédi Annabi warned the Security Council that despite significant gains in politics and institution-building, the security situation there remains fragile.

Following the meeting, Council president Dumisani Kumalo (photo)read a statement on behalf of the 15-member chamber in which they deplored the recent violence and bloodshed in Haiti:

"The members of the Security Council, while noting the primary responsibility of the Government and the people of Haiti over the country's stabilization, recognized the importance of sustained international support for Haiti's efforts to tackle the challenges it confronts to achieve a sustained path to development. They welcomed the long-term commitment of international donors and encouraged them to continue strengthening their levels of assistance."

The Security Council welcomed Haiti's progress towards judicial reform and in establishing the rule of law, with assistance from the UN mission in the country.

For UN Radio, I'm Dianne Penn.

(duration: 1'09")