Following is the text of the Secretary General's official statement:

New York, 5 December 2001 -- Following the signing of the "Provisional Arrangements in Afghanistan"

The Secretary-General warmly welcomes the signing in Bonn today of the "Provisional Arrangements in Afghanistan", which provide for the establishment of an Interim Authority. He congratulates all concerned -- and particularly the Afghan delegations -- on showing the necessary spirit of compromise to reach this accord, which is an important step towards the achievement of lasting peace and a return to legitimate authority in Afghanistan.

The Secretary-General notes that the "Provisional Arrangements" call for the United Nations system to play a multi-faceted role in their implementation. He wishes to assure the Afghan people, who have endured terrible suffering during the last two decades, that the United Nations stands ready to help them reach peace, stability and prosperity -- and he trusts that Member States will provide the necessary resources and support.

The Secretary-General also wishes to thank Chancellor Schroeder and the German Government for the support they provided to the Afghan delegations and to Mr. Brahimi's team during the last nine days.