UN General Assembly
1996

older, and maintains their “loyalty” with the use of drugs and terror. This notwithstanding, my Government entered into peace negotiations in the spirit of reconciliation, and I am pleased to report that the talks have advanced considerably. In March 1996, just after my assumption of office, a ceasefire was agreed upon. In spite of some incidents, it is still generally holding. On behalf of the people and Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone, I should like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to the Secretary- 4 General, Mr. Boutros Boutros-Ghali, for the continuing support he has afforded us to in promoting the cause of democratization and the restoration of peace in my country and, in particular, for his assignment of a Special Envoy, whose constructive and enduring role has helped to advance the peace process. I should also like to express gratitude to President Henri Konan-Bédié and the Government and people of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire for the selfless and painstaking efforts they have deployed in hosting and