{Abidjan, 30 May 2013}---Outgoing UN Special Representative for Côte d'Ivoire, Bert Koenders and Ivorian Minister-delegate for Defence, Paul Koffi Koffi today signed a cooperation convention to strengthen relations between the UN Operation in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI) and the Republican Forces of Côte d'Ivoire (FRCI).



The joint initiative is aimed at reinforcing cooperation between UNOCI Force and the FRCI on several levels within the context of UNOCI's transition.



The first aspect of the new cooperation initiative envisages the setting up of a mechanism to encourage mutual understanding between officers and the rank and file of both forces and to facilitate joint operations.



The second is to reinforce support for training programmes conducted by UNOCI for members of the FRCI in addition to training by other partners such as Force Licorne. In this context, emphasis will be placed on the protection of civilians, human rights and international humanitarian rights, refugee rights including the protection of children and the fight against sexual violence.



Thirdly, UNOCI will examine with the FRCI the possibilities of the UN Mission's direct operational support and to a lesser extent, logistic assistance to Ivorian military units in the field in such a manner as to boost their capacity to protect the civilian population.



The cooperation framework will be put in place in accordance with UNOCI's mandate and means and within the areas of its deployment in strict conformity with the rules and regulations of the UN as well as due diligence regarding human rights as applicable in the context of UN support to non-UN security forces.



Before signing the partnership document, the Special Representative welcomed the relationship of trust between UNOCI and the Minister-delegate for Defence, noting the good cooperation between the two institutions throughout the post-electoral crisis.



"There has been significant progress made in establishing security. But there are still some challenges to overcome in order to build a true republican army," he said. "That is why I am particularly happy today to be able to sign this document which marks a new form of cooperation between our institutions and this is happening a few days to my departure from Côte d'Ivoire to assume my new duties in Mali."



The ceremony was the culmination of a common effort by UNOCI and FRCI following a proposal by the UN Mission for the reinforcement of cooperation between the two bodies.