Statements on CI

Attacks in and Around Bouaké

Richard Boucher, Spokesman
Washington, DC
November 4, 2004

The United States condemns the aerial attacks in and around the city of Bouaké carried out by Government of Cote d’Ivoire aircraft.  We urge all parties to exercise restraint and to work together to decrease tensions that have risen to dangerous levels in recent weeks.  The United States calls on all parties to pursue the peace process in accordance with their commitments in the Linas-Marcoussis (Lee-Nas Mar-Coussi) accords, Accra III, and other peace agreements, which include enacting reforms through the legislature and disarming former combatants.  

 

We are deeply disturbed that so far, political leaders on all sides have failed to put the welfare of the people of Cote d’Ivoire above narrow political interests.  Those parties that continue to undermine the peace process and seek to resume the war will be held accountable.

 

2004/1193

Released on November 4, 2004