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Central African Republic: Annan hails efforts to promote national reconciliation

Central African Republic: Annan hails efforts to promote national reconciliation

Reacting to the latest developments in the Central African Republic, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan welcomed all efforts to promote national reconciliation and stability in the country, and described the resolution adopted by the National Assembly at an extraordinary session last week as "a step in the right direction."

"The Secretary-General also welcomes the political dialogue initiated by President Patassé during his recent meetings with the opposition parties and the diplomatic community," a spokesman for Mr. Annan said in a statement released today at UN Headquarters in New York. "He encourages the President to pursue his efforts and to take the necessary measures to restore calm and the respect for the rule of law and human rights for all citizens."

The Secretary-General also urged the international partners to assist the Central African Republic in managing the serious humanitarian and socio-economic problems facing the nation, which have been exacerbated by the recent troubling events.

The spokesman added that Mr. Annan continued to follow closely developments in the country and the work of his Special Envoy there, General Amadou Toumani Touré.