UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday welcomed the establishment of a smaller UN mission in Haiti following the end of a stabilization mission mandate in the Caribbean state.
"The closure of Minustah is a testament to Haiti's progress over the past 13 years," said Guterres' spokesperson Stephane Dujarric in a statement, referring to the name of the mission. "The secretary-general extends his gratitude to all civilian and uniformed personnel who served with Minustah, as well as to troop and police contributing countries."
The follow-up UN Mission for Justice Support in Haiti, called Minujusth reflects the UN commitment to continued support for the consolidation of peace and promotion of stability in Haiti, said Guterres.
The new mission will assist the Haitian government to strengthen rule of law institutions, further develop the national police and advance human rights. The national police can rely on operational support from Minujusth, when needed, to maintain law and order throughout the territory, he said.
The secretary-general is confident that the Haitian people and government will work in close partnership with Minujusth and the UN country team for security and development, said the statement.
