The members of the Security Council take note with appreciation of your letter of 27 October 1997 (S/1997/998) containing assurances, given in an attachment to the letter, concerning the forthcoming elections and the security and safety of returning political leaders, as well as regarding their participation in political activities. They welcome these commitments and take note of your intention to keep the Council regularly informed about their implementation.

The members of the Security Council express support for the steps you intend to undertake to monitor the return of political leaders staying abroad and their resumption of political activities, as enumerated in your letter. They also express hope that these steps may help facilitate the expeditious return of political leaders staying abroad.

The members of the Security Council support and commend you and member countries of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) for your persistent efforts to contribute constructively to a peaceful resolution of the Cambodian situation.

(Signed) Juan SOMAVÍA

President of the Security Council