Madagascar / France is very concerned by the continuing violence
PARIS, France, January 29, 2009/African Press Organization (APO)/ — French ministry of Foreign Affairs Daily Press Briefing
Taken questions
What is your analysis of the situation in Madagascar? During a radio address, President Ravalomanana mentioned the presence of a French naval vessel near the island. Is that the case, and if so, what is its mission?
France is very concerned by the continuing violence in Madagascar, and wishes for a rapid return to calm and public order, so as to guarantee the security of Madagascan and foreign civilians alike, and their property.
This morning, after a telephone conversation yesterday evening with President Ravalomanana, Bernard Kouchner was again in touch with the Madagascan Head of State, Mayor of Tananarive Andry Rajoelina, and Roland Ratsiraka. He reiterated France’s impartiality in the crisis currently spreading across Madagascar, and he reaffirmed our conviction that only dialogue will allow for a lasting solution.
We continue to be in contact with all parties, who we ask to their best in finding a policy of solution that will respond to the Madagascan population’s aspirations for security, stability, and development.
France did not dispatch a ship near the island of Madagascar.
SOURCE : France – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
