United Nations Security Council Resolution 1480

by the United Nations

Adopted unanimously by the Security Council at its 4758th meeting, on 19 May 2003

The Security Council,

Reaffirming its previous resolutions on Timor-Leste, in particular resolutions 1410 (2002) of 17 May 2002 and 1473 (2003) of 4 April 2003,

Commending the efforts of the people and Government of Timor-Leste and the progress achieved in developing the institutions of an independent State and in promoting a stable, equitable society based on democratic values and respect for human rights,

Commending also the work of the United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor (UNMISET), under the leadership of the Secretary-General’s Special Representative, in assisting the Government of Timor-Leste in developing the nation’s infrastructure, public administration, law enforcement and defence capacities, and in planning for the completion of UNMISET’s mandate, including through the creation of a mission liquidation task force,

Stressing that improving the overall capabilities of the Timor-Leste police force is a key priority,

Welcoming the continuing progress in developing a positive bilateral relationship between the Governments of Timor-Leste and Indonesia which is crucial for the future stability of Timor-Leste, and encouraging continued efforts by both governments to secure agreement on the issue of border demarcation; to promote security in the border area; to facilitate the resettlement of East Timorese remaining in West Timor; and to bring to justice those responsible for serious crimes committed in 1999,

Recognizing the importance of continued efforts to transfer skills and authority from UNMISET to the government of Timor-Leste in a coordinated and structured manner in the run-up to UNMISET’s withdrawal, with the aim of helping ensure the long-term security and stability of Timor-Leste,

Noting the planned end-date for UNMISET of 20 May 2004, as indicated in the Mandate Implementation Plan set out in the Secretary-General’s report of 17 April 2002 (S/2002/432), and in the special report of the Secretary-General of 3 March 2003 (S/2003/243),

Stressing the need for continued international support for Timor-Leste, and encouraging continued bilateral and multilateral development assistance,

Having considered the report of the Secretary-General of 21 April 2003 (S/2003/449),

Taking note of the military strategy outlined in paragraphs 38 to 51 of that report,

1. Decides to extend the current mandate of UNMISET until 20 May 2004;

2. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.