Secretary-General welcomes signing of agreement

 

to promote lasting political reforms in Togo

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General welcomes the signing yesterday by Togolese political parties, the Government and civil society of an agreement aimed at promoting lasting political reforms in the country.  He sees this as an important undertaking by the Togolese as a whole to put the past behind them and to build a brighter future based on reconciliation, transparency and the rule of law.

The Secretary-General commends President Compaore for facilitating the process that led to the successful conclusion of the inter-Togolese dialogue.  He is encouraged by the spirit of conciliation and compromise demonstrated by Togolese political leaders throughout the process and welcomes President Faure Gnassingbe’s commitment to ensure the agreement is implemented fully and rapidly.

The Secretary-General calls upon the international community to help Togo consolidate the new chapter in the country’s process of democratic reform through renewed and increased cooperation and support, in particular to revitalize the economy.

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For information media • not an official record