The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:
The Secretary-General notes with satisfaction the statement issued by the Government of President [Alassane] Ouattara regarding as invalid a declaration by the authorities supporting Mr. [Laurent] Gbagbo, banning United Nations and Licorne flights inside Côte d’Ivoire.
He deplores this latest attempt to disrupt the operations of the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) and warns all parties that any attempt to disrupt flights conducted by the impartial forces is unacceptable.
The Secretary-General confirms that UNOCI will maintain its flight operations and take all necessary measures, as directed by unanimous Security Council resolutions, to protect its assets and fulfil its mandate, particularly with regards to protection of civilians.
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