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NEWS RELEASES

September 23, 2002 (5:00 p.m. EDT) No. 108

CANADA CALLS FOR RESTRAINT AND END TO VIOLENCE IN

CÔTE D'IVOIRE

Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today condemned the recent violence in Côte d'Ivoire and urged all parties to seek a peaceful resolution to the current situation. Canada's support for a peaceful resolution and its concern for the safety of foreign nationals have been conveyed to government authorities in Côte d'Ivoire and Ottawa.

"Canada calls for restraint and an end to further bloodshed," said Minister Graham. "We encourage all parties to respect human rights, and to engage in peaceful dialogue aimed at resolving the crisis."

In recent days, clashes between government forces and rebel troops have affected several regions of the country. There are almost 900 Canadians registered with the embassy in the city of Abidjan. Embassy officials have been in regular contact with the Canadian community since the crisis began and are working closely with other countries to safeguard foreign nationals in the country. Canadians are being advised not to travel to Côte d'Ivoire until further notice and those in the country to remain indoors.

The Minister noted that in the New Partnership for Africa's Development, African nations emphasized the need for the respect of human rights and the resolution of civil conflicts that afflict Africa. At Kananaskis, G8 leaders agreed to support African efforts to promote peace, security and good governance. These latest events in Côte d'Ivoire underscore the importance of African leaders coming to grips with these problems, which only contribute to instability and hinder social, political and economic development on the continent.

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