Lusaka Protocol End Marks Start of New Era in Angola

The United States congratulates the Government of Angola, the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) and the United Nations on the cooperative spirit that has characterized the final implementation of the nation's peace accords through the Joint Commission established under the 1994 Lusaka Protocol concluded yesterday. The United States applauds the strong political will of the Government and UNITA in bringing the process to a mutually agreeable conclusion. The United States calls on UNITA to assume its responsibility as a viable political party and to work closely with the Government on national reconciliation.

The United States and the international community stand ready to support humanitarian assistance, human rights, resettlement and reintegration activities, reconstruction, development and economic reforms over the long-term in Angola. We encourage the Angolan Government to increase its efforts to meet the humanitarian needs of its people, particularly the internally displaced, and to develop realistic resettlement programs. The United States will work closely with the Angolan Government as it leads national reconciliation efforts to facilitate the full reintegration of former military personnel into the greater Angolan society; organize free, fair and credible multi-party elections; and implement free market economic reforms.

The full implementation of the Angolan peace accords marks the end of an era. The post-war government's greatest challenge is the responsibility to ensure the continuation of peace. The United States stands ready to assist all parties in meeting this challenge.