“I congratulate Alassane Outtara on his victory in Cote d’Ivoire’s November 28 elections.  The Independent Electoral Commission, credible and accredited observers, and the United Nations have all confirmed this result and attested to its credibility.

Cote d’Ivoire is now at a crossroads.  I urge all parties, including incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo, to acknowledge and respect this result, and to allow Cote d’Ivoire to move forward toward a peaceful, democratic future, leaving long years of conflict and missed opportunities in the past.  The international community will hold those who act to thwart the democratic process and the will of the electorate accountable for their actions.”