Joint Media Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Gareth Evans, and the Minister for Justice, Mr Duncan Kerr

WITHDRAWAL OF AUSTRALIAN POLICE MONITORS IN HAITI

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Gareth Evans, and the Minister for Justice, Mr Duncan Kerr, announced today that the Australian Police Contingent operating as International Police Monitors with the United Nations-endorsed Multinational Force (MNF) in Haiti would be withdrawn later this month.

The Ministers said that the MNF had successfully completed its mission in accordance with the mandate set down in UN Security Council Resolution 940. This had resulted in the declaration by the UN of a secure and stable environment in Haiti.

"The professionalism and diligence of our police monitors have contributed in a significant way to the process of restoration of democracy in Haiti", the Ministers said. "The success of this mission further demonstrates Australia's firm commitment to international efforts to address global humanitarian issues."

It is intended that the Australian Police Contingent will be withdrawn on 21 March with its functions and those of the MNF to be fully assumed by the UN Mission in Haiti (UNMIH).

CANBERRA