Security Council Press Statement on Côte d’Ivoire

The following Security Council press statement was read out today by Council President Susan Rice ( United States):

The members of the Security Council are deeply concerned about the violence, in particular against civilians in Côte d’Ivoire, including reports of gunfire in Abidjan near the Golf Hotel.  The members of the Security Council condemn in the strongest terms acts of violence and are alarmed by reports of multiple civilian fatalities, many more wounded and even more being displaced across Côte d’Ivoire.  The members of the Security Council warn all stakeholders that they will be held accountable for attacks against civilians and will be brought to justice, in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law.

The members of the Security Council urge all Ivorian stakeholders to exercise maximum restraint, remain calm, resist provocative actions, refrain from violence, and work together to restore sustainable peace.

The members of the Security Council reiterate their support for the constructive role of the Secretary-General in Côte d’Ivoire and stress the important role that the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) under the leadership of his Special Representative continues to play under its existing mandate.

The members of the Security Council welcome efforts by the African Union, Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and countries in the region to assist in preserving peace and stability in Côte d’Ivoire.

The members of the Security Council recall their last statement on Côte d’Ivoire on 8 December and urge all parties to respect the will of the people and the outcome of the election.

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For information media • not an official record