UN troops could relieve NZ force in Timor

The United Nations could relieve New Zealand troops in East Timor.

Secretary-General Kofi Annan has recommended that nearly two-thousand UN troops and police be sent to East Timor as part of a new peacekeeping mission.

The mission would take over duties from an Australian-led international force sent in to restore peace after a wave of clashes and arson attacks in May.

New Zealand, Malaysia and Portugal also contributed troops.

Kofi Annan told the Security Council the UN force should be given an initial one-year mandate.

Its role would be to help the government ensure political stability, support 2007 presidential and parliamentary elections and maintain public security.

- NEWSTALK ZB