By empty (2/10/2003 issue of the CACI Analyst)
The UN Security Council has voted unanimously to extend and improve efforts to control the remnants of Afghanistan\'s former Taleban government and the al-Qaeda network of Osama Bin Laden. The resolution aims to tighten monitoring procedures and keep sanctions in place. It indicates the seriousness the UN attaches to the potential threat from these organisations - despite the defeat of the Taleban in Afghanistan and the ongoing action against al-Qaeda.
The UN Security Council has voted unanimously to extend and improve efforts to control the remnants of Afghanistan\'s former Taleban government and the al-Qaeda network of Osama Bin Laden. The resolution aims to tighten monitoring procedures and keep sanctions in place. It indicates the seriousness the UN attaches to the potential threat from these organisations - despite the defeat of the Taleban in Afghanistan and the ongoing action against al-Qaeda. They may be all but gone from the corridors of power in Afghanistan, but as far as the UN is concerned they are not yet forgotten. In a sharp reminder of the threat still posed by remnants of the Taleban and al-Qaeda, Security Council members have voted unanimously to strengthen monitoring mechanisms set up to limit the ability of these organisations to operate freely anywhere in the world. Diplomats say this resolution aims to establish a more effective system to implement existing security arrangements. The focus is on better coordination between UN committees set up to report on and monitor the activities of both groups. In passing the resolution, Security Council members have reflected concern raised by a UN report last year that said al-Qaeda had diversified its sources of funding and remained a threat to global peace and security. (BBC)