Foreign and Military Affairs

China urges peaceful solution to Cote d'Ivoire crisis

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-04-08 20:25

BEIJING- China urges related parties in the Cote d'Ivoire crisis to end conflicts through consultations and negotiations, a foreign ministry spokesman said Friday.

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"We lament the numerous civilian casualties caused by the armed conflicts in Cote d'Ivoire. We call on the related parties to end the conflicts through consultations and negotiations and reach political reconciliation and national unity," Hong Lei said in a statement.

"China is concerned about the security situation in Cote d'Ivoire and hopes the related parties can adopt concrete measures to maintain social order and protect the safety of civilians including foreign nationals," Hong said.

The spokesman said China is willing to make joint efforts with the international community, to play a constructive role in realizing the peaceful development and long-term stability of Cote d'Ivoire.

Turmoil erupted in Cote d'Ivoire following Laurent Gbagbo's refusal to concede defeat after losing the second round of presidential elections on November 28, 2010, to his opponent, former prime minister Alassane Ouattara.

The situation in the country has been tense since the pro-Ouattara Cote d'Ivoire Republican Forces, supported by the UN and French Licorne forces, decided to launch an offensive against Gbagbo's strategic points including his residence.

Gbagbo has continued to resist and refused to sign documents relinquishing his power and recognizing Ouattara as the winner of the presidential election.