31 March 2011 -- "The Secretary-General is closely following the rapidly evolving events in Côte d'Ivoire and is concerned about the heightened violence," according to a statement attributable to his Spokesman.

He urges all parties to abide by their responsibility to avoid harm to the civilian population. It is essential that all parties cooperate with the United Nations Mission in Côte d'Ivoire in carrying out its mandate to protect civilians. The Secretary-General reiterates that those responsible for inciting, orchestrating or committing human rights violations will be held accountable under international law.

He is also very concerned about the critical humanitarian situation in both Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia. The Secretary-General calls on all parties to allow immediate access to populations in need and appeals to the international community to contribute generously to the resources required to address this emergency.

The Secretary-General urges all to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from exacting revenge and place the interests of the whole nation above all else. He calls on former President Laurent Gbagbo to immediately cede power to President Ouattara to enable the full transition of state institutions to the legitimate authorities.

New York, 31 March 2011