UNMOT extended, continuation of dialogue urged.

• Position: UN Mission of Observers in Tajikstan

The Security Council on 14 December, in extending the mandate of the UN Mission of Observers in Tajikistan (UNMOT) until 15 June 1996, regretted the "slow rate of progress" towards a political solution to the conflict in that country.

By unanimously adopting resolution 1030 (1995), it also stipulated that the six-month extension of the Mission, deployed since 16 December 1994, was subject to the proviso that the 17 September 1994 Teheran Agreement on a cease-fire remained in force, and both parties--the Government of Tajikistan and the United Tajik Opposition--continued to be "committed to an effective cease-fire, to national reconciliation and to the promotion of democracy". In that regard, they were urged to agree to the Teheran pact's "substantial extension".

Also, by calling upon the two sides to cooperate fully with the Secretary-General's Special Envoy, Ramiro Piriz-Ballon, the Council stressed the need for them to take the opportunity of the continual round of inter-Tajik talks in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, which had begun on 30 November, to reach a general agreement that would restore peace and national accord in Tajikistan.

The continuation of "direct political dialogue" between President Emomali Rakhmonov of Tajikistan and Abdullo Nuri, leader of the Islamic Revival Movement, was also encouraged.

In addition, the Council stressed the "urgency of the cessation of all hostile acts" on the Tajik-Afghan border, and called upon all States and others concerned to "discourage any activities that could complicate or hinder the peace process" in that country. The relevant Afghan authorities were encouraged to facilitate the establishment of a "liaison post at Taloqan in northern Afghanistan".

In commending the activities of agencies and organizations assisting the civilian population in Tajikistan, the Council welcomed the "successful resettlement of the vast majority of...