5 September 2009 - The United Nations Secretary-General supports Guinea-Bissau efforts for stability and progress, a UN top official today told the press in Bissau. Haile Menkerios, Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs, was interviewed at his arrival to the country's capital to represent the Secretary-General at the inauguration of the new President of Guinea-Bissau, Malam Bacai Sanhá, who won the elections on 26 July 2009. The inauguration ceremony will be held Tuesday, 8 September.

"I am coming to represent the Secretary-General at the inauguration of the President. This is a victory not only for him but for people of Guinea-Bissau for having had a successful and peaceful democratic election; and ensure them of the support of the SG in their efforts of stability and progress for the country", Menkerios said.

As for Guinea-Bissau's future, the Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs said that Security Sector Reform and development are part of the challenges and repeated that the United Nations "will fully support the efforts of this democratic elected government". Definitely has

Menkerios also recalled the tragedies faced by the people of Guinea-Bissau but "hope these are behind us" and the "institutions of the state will ensure stability for the people and also development that they deserve".

During his visit, Menkerios will hold talks with the President, the Prime Minister and members of the Government as well as ambassadors and representatives of international institutions.

The UN Assistant Secretary General visited Guinea-Bissau in May 2008.