PSC/PR/Comm. (2004) (XIX)
Page 1
COMMUNIQUE OF THE NINETEENTH SESSION
OF THE PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL
The Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU), meeting in its nineteenth
session, on 8 November 2004, to discuss the situation in Côte d’Ivoire :
1.
Expresses its deep concern at the recent deterioration in the situation in Côte d’Ivoire,
as a result of the lack of progress in the implementation of the commitments entered into by
the parties in the Accra III Agreement, particularly the recent attacks launched by the
Government forces on localities in the northern part of the country;
2.
Endorses the Statement of 6 November 2004, issued at Ota, Nigeria, following
AU/ECOWAS high level consultations under the auspices of the AU Chairperson, President
Olusegun Obasanjo, and the Statement of November 7, 2004, issued by the Chairperson of the
AU Commission, Mr. Alpha Oumar Konaré;
3.
Urges the Government of Côte d’Ivoire and all the Parties involved in the crisis to
exercise maximum restraint, and to maintain calm and ensure the safety and protection of all
life and property. Council further urges all the parties to desist from any pronouncements that
incite hatred and violence and, rather, take measures that will reduce tension and foster
national reconciliation and unity;
4.
Expresses deep concern at the serious deterioration of the humanitarian situation in
Côte d’Ivoire and appeals to the international community and humanitarian agencies to
provide the necessary assistance to the affected population. In this regard, Council urges all
the parties to create an environment conducive to the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance;
5.
Reiterates the imperative need for a political solution to the conflict in Côte d’Ivoire;
and urges all the parties to put an immediate end to military actions and other hostile acts.
Council further urges them to recommit themselves to the path of dialogue and negotiations,
based on the Linas-Marcoussis and Accra III Agreements;
6.
Calls upon all the parties to fully cooperate with UNOCI and the Licorne Forces in
maintaining peace and security in the country. In this regard, Council welcomes the decision
by the UN Security Council on the strengthening of the mandate of UNOCI. Council further
calls upon Member States to stand ready to contribute to the expansion of the UNOCI Forces,
should the need arise;
7.
Expresses support for the decision taken by the AU Chairperson following the Ota high
level AU/ECOWAS consultations, to mandate President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa to
undertake an urgent mission in consultation with the Chairperson of the AU Commission, with a
view to promoting a political solution. In this regard, Council calls upon its members to extend
full support to President Mbeki in his mission;
8.
Decides to remain actively seized with the matter.