E-016/2000
January 26, 2000

OAS SUPPORTS CONSTITUTIONAL GOVERNMENT OF ECUADOR

 

The Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) today categorically repudiated any action against the democratic and constitutional order in Ecuador or any other member state. The Organization also strongly condemned the events that drove the constitutionally elected President from office.

In special session, Ecuador’s Ambassador, Patricio Vivanco, updated the Permanent Council on developments in his country. He noted that the OAS’ quick response contributed to a speedy resolution to the crisis. OAS Secretary General César Gaviria said, meanwhile, that "the continuity of the democratic regime has been preserved and we all hope that the government formed will succeed in uniting the country to deal with the complex political and social realities."

Chaired by Dominican Republic Ambassador Flavio Darío Espinal, the meeting adopted a resolution supporting the constitutional government of Ecuador. The Permanent Council declared that, in view of the grave events in Ecuador, it was "the constitutional duty of the armed forces and security forces to defend and preserve the democratic system of government and the constitutional authorities."

The resolution expressed support for the government of President Gustavo Noboa Bejarano and its efforts to re-establish institutional stability, restore governance, and uphold the rule of law. He called on Ecuadorian political, social and economic institutions "to contribute through dialogue and negotiation to strengthening democratic institutions and fostering the economic and social development of the Ecuadorian people."

The OAS Permanent Council urged international financial institutions to cooperate urgently with the constitutional government of Ecuador in implementing an economic plan that contributes to the country’s overall development. It also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and defending democratic values and institutions, in accordance with the purposes, principles and norms in force in the inter-American system, and asked the Secretary General to keep the Permanent Council informed about developments in Ecuador.

During the meeting, OAS member state delegations conveyed their firm support for Ecuador’s democratic institutions.

 

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