NEWS RELEASES
CANADA CALLS FOR PEACEFUL SOLUTION TO CONFLICT IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE
December 13, 2002 (12:30 p.m. EST) No. 173
CANADA CALLS FOR PEACEFUL SOLUTION TO
CONFLICT IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE
Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham today expressed Canada's profound concern about the ongoing political and
humanitarian crisis in Côte d'Ivoire and reassured the people of Côte d'Ivoire of Canada's support during this difficult
time.
"Canada urges all parties to intensify their efforts to bring about a lasting and peaceful solution to the conflict in Côte
d'Ivoire," said Mr. Graham. "We will continue to support countries in the region and ECOWAS, the Economic Community
of West African States, as they work toward that end."
Mr. Graham added that Canada supports calls for an independent investigation, following reports of the discovery of mass
graves in Côte d'Ivoire, so that all the facts can be established and those responsible brought to justice.
The Minister urged all parties to ensure that the lives and property of all people in the country are protected in accordance
with international humanitarian law.
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Isabelle Savard
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
(613) 995-1851
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
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