The Special Representative of the UN Secretary- General for Côte d'Ivoire, Y.J. Choi, opened this morning, in Abidjan, a co-ordination meeting of contingent and battalion commanders of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI).

At the opening of the twice-yearly meeting, Mr. Choi congratulated the Mission's military chiefs for their role in maintaining peace in Côte d'Ivoire and urged them to continue their good work. He also highlighted the role of the contingents in the implementation of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs), which he explained, had contributed to the close relations they had with the Ivorian population.

The Chief of UNOCI stressed the need for the military, to have an exemplary conduct in the communities where they are deployed, so as to preserve their reputation, that of their armies, their countries and the United Nations.

For his part, UNOCI's Force Commander, General Fernand Marcel Amoussou, welcomed the presentation on the political and security situation made by Mr. Choi. He said that it would enable the force to renew its commitment and determination to accomplish its mission to the very end. Peace and stability, he stated, will be achieved with the contribution of the Ivorian forces. "We have made a lot of progress, but I think we can do more and I hope that the final push to resolve the crisis will be made by all our partners", he concluded.