Statements on CI

Pretoria Agreement on the Peace Process

Richard Boucher, Spokesman
Washington, DC
April 7, 2005

The United States welcomes the Agreement reached on April 6 in Pretoria establishing a new plan for achieving a peaceful solution to the ongoing crisis in Cote d’Ivoire. We commend the mediation efforts of South African President Mbeki on behalf of the African Union. We call upon all the parties to the agreement to fully honor these new commitments, as well as meet their continuing responsibilities under the Linas-Marcoussis and Accra III Accords. A rededication of effort toward disarmament, reunification of the country, and genuine reconciliation will enable Ivoirians to move forward to free and fair elections with the oversight and participation of the international community.

2005/390

Released on April 7, 2005