"I wanted to explore ways and means of strengthening your efforts toward reconciliation at all levels of Ivorian society," Mrs. Aichatou Mindaoudou, Special Representative of UN Secretary-General for Cote d'Ivoire declared after meeting with a delegation of the Higher Council of Kings and Traditional Rulers of Cote d'Ivoire on 22 August 2013.



Mrs. Mindaoudou expressed the satisfaction and congratulations of the UN Secretary-General and the entire UN family with the mediation and facilitation work carried out by the kings and traditional leaders during the Ivorian crisis.



Stressing the role of the kings and traditional rulers among the population, the UNOCI Chief asked for their blessings and support so that they can together work for reconciliation, lasting peace and the development of Cote d'Ivoire. She expressed her willingness to spare no effort in this direction.



For his part, the Secretary-General and Spokesman of the Higher Council of Kings and Traditional Rulers, Nana Ndepo Didas said "in requesting to meet the members of the Higher Council, you have demonstrated the regard you have for the custodians of traditional and customary authority in Cote d'Ivoire."



Nana Ndepo recalled that unity, solidarity, tolerance, forgiveness, concord and peace constitute the sacred virtues of African and Ivorian traditions. He expressed the constant commitment of the kings and chiefs to peace and national dialogue based on truth and reconciliation and called on all Ivorians to take part in republican discussions in order to strengthen democracy.