Readout of Secretary-General's telephone call with Jean Ping, Chairperson of the African Union Commission

The Secretary-General and Chairperson Ping spoke today on the latest negotiations in Cote d'Ivoire, noting the importance of finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The Secretary-General thanked the Chairperson for the efficient dispatching of Kenyan Prime Minister Odinga, who had joined the Presidents of Benin, Cape Verde and Sierra Leone in Abidjan to negotiate with both Messrs. Ouattara and Gbagbo. A third trip to Abidjan by the Presidents was scheduled for the imminent future.

The Secretary-General and Chairperson Ping also exchanged views on Sudan and the upcoming referendum scheduled for this Sunday. Both agreed that it was essential that all accept the results of the referendum. It would be incumbent on the international community to continue to help the people of Sudan in the period after the referendum on outstanding issues.

The Secretary-General thanked Chairperson Ping for his continued support and leadership.