| Press Statement Lynn L. Cassel, Acting Spokesperson Washington, DC May 22, 2003 Fighting in LiberiaThe United States calls on all combatants, including the government and those rebels calling themselves “Liberians United for Reconciliation and Development” (LURD) and “Movement for Democracy in Liberia” (MODEL), to cease their campaigns of violence, and to spare the lives and property of innocent civilians. We urge rebel forces to stay well clear of major population centers, such as Monrovia and Buchanan, and so avoid creating an even greater humanitarian catastrophe.
We also remind all of Liberia’s neighbors of their obligation under relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, including Resolution 1478, to take steps to prevent their territory from being used to support rebel forces.
All armed groups should act immediately to allow humanitarian access to territory under their control for relief workers, to help mitigate against growing hunger and disease.
Furthermore, all Liberians should prepare themselves for reconciliation and cease-fire talks planned for Accra in early June. We expect the Government of Liberia and the rebels to abide by their pledges to approach cease-fire talks without preconditions, and we hope that all Liberians will work together to finally bring peace and responsible government to their land. |
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