Media Statement by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation on the situation in Côte d’Ivoire

Having taken note of the Final Communiqué of the Extraordinary Session of Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Côte d’Ivoire held on 7 December 2010 in Abuja, as well as the statement issued after the 251st meeting of the African Union Peace and Security Council that was convened in Addis Ababa on 4 December 2010, the South African Government urges President Laurent Gbagbo to respect and abide by the declarations issued by these Regional bodies with regard to the second round of elections in Côte d’Ivoire.

The South African Government calls for restraint and further urges the Ivorian leaders to promote national reconciliation and unity as the uppermost priority during this period in Côte d’Ivoire.

For further information please contact: Spokesperson Mr Clayson Monyela, on 082 806 7405.

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
OR Tambo Building
Private Bag X152
Pretoria

8 December 2010