International community strives to maintain peace in Africa’s Côte d'Ivoire. Leaders of West African nations, the African Union, the United Nations and many international governments have been seeking diplomatic resolution to disputed results of the country’s recent presidential election. While the United Nations has determined Mr. Alassane Ouattara to be the next head of state, incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo has proclaimed himself the winner. Out of concern for their safety, many residents have fled the country, taking shelter in neighboring Liberia, where the UN World Food Program has airlifted emergency food supplies. Following a second visit to the nation by West African leaders, President Gbagbo announced he would lift a blockade around the temporary headquarters of Mr. Alassane Ouattara and that he is willing to negotiate a peaceful exit without preconditions.

We appreciate these gestures and all the international efforts toward diplomatic resolution. Our prayers for the soon restoration of lasting peace for all the gentle-hearted people of Côte d'Ivoire.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jan/03/ivory-coast-president-laurent-gbagbo
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/01/03/us.ivory.coast/
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/212571.php
http://www.afriquejet.com/news/africa-news/cote-d%27ivoire:-ouattara%27s-legitimacy-questionable---russia-2011010266052.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-12114707, http://www.presstv.com/detail/158621.html