SC/8504
AFR/1253
22 September 2005

Press Statement on Côte d'Ivoire by Security Council President

NEW YORK, 21 September (UN Headquarters) -- Following is today's statement to the press by Security Council President Lauro Baja (Philippines):

Council members reiterated their support for the efforts of the Secretary-General, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), towards promoting peace and national reconciliation in Côte d'Ivoire, as well as for the continuing facilitation efforts of President Mbeki of South Africa.

Council members also underscored the importance for all Ivorian parties to comply fully with all relevant agreements, including the Pretoria agreement of 6 April 2005.

Council members further expressed their support for the upcoming visit to the region of Ambassador Vassilakis, Chairman of the [Sanctions] Committee, noting that the purpose of the visit was to assess the progress made by all parties towards the implementation of their commitments, bearing in mind the Committee's mandate under paragraphs 9 and 11 of resolution 1572 (2004), so that the Council will be in a position to take appropriate action in response to those who pose a threat to the peace and national reconciliation process in Côte d'Ivoire, or who are determined to be responsible for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in Côte d'Ivoire.

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