Despite China’s Objections, U.N. Extends Haiti Mission

UNITED NATIONS —  Sidestepping Chinese opposition, the Security Council has agreed to extend the stay of U.N. peacekeepers in Haiti until the end of July.

China objects to the presence of U.N. troops in Haiti because it extends diplomatic recognition to Taiwan, which Beijing considers a renegade province.

The 15-member Security Council met this week to consider a report by U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan on keeping the 500 troops and 262 civilian police in place in Haiti. The Chinese ambassador said he had no new instructions from Beijing on the issue and left the meeting.

The other 14 members then accepted the report by consensus, without a vote or formal resolution. As a permanent council member, China can veto resolutions.