SC/8477
AFR/1236
22 August 2005

Press Statement by Security Council President on Côte d'Ivoire

NEW YORK, 19 August (UN Headquarters) -- Following is today's press statement on Côte d'Ivoire by the President of the Security Council, Kenzo Oshima (Japan):

The members of the Security Council called upon the Ivorian authorities and all parties to bring an end to impediments to the freedom of movements of the Impartial Forces.

The members of the Council urged all parties to show responsibility and restraint, in their actions and statements, so that the upcoming electoral campaign is held in a peaceful atmosphere and as scheduled.  They will follow this issue vigilantly.

The members of the Council recalled that the Security Council endorsed the Pretoria Agreement.  They demanded that all the signatories to this Agreement and all Ivorian parties concerned implement it fully and without delay.

The members of the Council reaffirmed their full support to the Mediator of the African Union, the Special Representative of the Secretary General and the High Representative for the Elections.

* *** *