Security Council mission headed to West Africa to explore prospects for peace

Searching for new opportunities for progress towards peace and stability in West Africa, members of the United Nations Security Council are set to leave tomorrow for a special mission to seven countries in the conflict-plagued sub-region.

The mission, which will be led by Ambassador Jeremy Greenstock of the United Kingdom, was postponed after having been slated to head to the area in mid-May.

The Council mission is expected to visit Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone. Council members will examine country-specific issues and developments at each stop. They will also aim to encourage more cooperation among the countries of the sub-region and to assess progress towards Council objectives on the protection of civilians and children affected by armed conflict.