The Secretary-General met in New York with His Excellency Mr. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana. The Secretary-General and the President discussed preparations for the upcoming elections in Ghana, including United Nations support.

They also discussed the situation in Cote d’Ivoire, and its regional implications, and the need for continued support to ensure that the country continues on its path towards lasting peace and stability.

The Secretary-General thanked Ghana for its consistent support for United Nations peace-keeping operations.  The two leaders underlined their concerns over the worrying situation in Mali and the need for international and regional support for a resolution of the issue.

The Secretary-General and President Dramani stressed the importance of sustainable development for Africa, including related issues such as climate change, food security, energy efficiency, child mortality and sanitation.