The Secretary-General spoke by telephone late on Saturday with H.E. Mr. Alassane Ouattara, the President of Cote d'Ivoire, to discuss the rapidly developing situation there. They reaffirmed the importance of the mandate of UNOCI, the UN mission in Cote d'Ivoire, to protect civilians.

The Secretary-General expressed particular concern and alarm about reports that pro-Ouattara forces may have killed many civilians in the town of Duekoue in the west of the country. The Secretary-General said those responsible should be held accountable.

President Ouattara, while denying his forces were involved, said he had launched an investigation and would welcome an international inquiry into the matter.