UN Security Council concerned about 'armed elements' in Côte d'Ivoire

The United Nations Security Council today expressed grave concern over the attempts of "armed elements" to cross the ceasefire line in Côte d'Ivoire separating the government-held south from the rebel-held north and west and it commended West African and French peacekeeping forces for turning them back.

Referring to a peace agreement signed in Linas-Marcoussis, France, in January, providing for a Government of National Reconciliation, the Council, in a presidential statement, called on all parties to refrain from any actions that might jeopardize the ceasefire or the agreement's implementation.

In that regard, the Council emphasized the importance of having the rebel Forces Nouvelles (FN) return to its positions in the government. The FN withdrew in September.

The Council also said the whole Government should meet immediately to implement all the peace agreement's provisions on national reconciliation. They also called for the urgent regrouping and demobilization of the opposing forces and their integration into the regular army or into civilian life.

Video of Council meeting