SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS ON ALL IVORIANS TO CONTINUE WORKING FOR PEACE

SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS ON ALL IVORIANS TO CONTINUE WORKING FOR PEACE

The following statement was issued on 29 October by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The arrangements proposed by the African Union on 6 October, which have been endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, provide a clear framework for the governance arrangements and for moving the peace process in Côte d’Ivoire after 30 October.

In light of the tragic loss of his wife, President Obasanjo of Nigeria has not yet been able to travel to Côte d’Ivoire to consult with all the Ivorian parties on the implementation of the AU decision and Security Council resolution 1633 (2005), including on the appointment of a new Prime Minister.  I am, however, in close contact with the President and will extend all the necessary support to him on these consultations.

In the meantime, I call on all the Ivorian parties and their followers to refrain from any actions that might create tensions and to remain committed to the ongoing process aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability to their country.  I also urge them to continue cooperating with their international partners under the current political arrangements, pending the upcoming mission by President Obasanjo to Côte d’Ivoire.

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For information media • not an official record