Heads of state attending the 24th France-Africa Summit in France on Friday expressed their "profound concern" regarding the crisis in Guinea, which "damaged public safety and threatened regional stability."

 

The heads of state or government condemned violence, described themselves as moved by the great number of "innocent victims" and expressed their worries concerning the worsening of the security situation in Guinea, according to a declaration published at the end of the summit.

 

They also appealed to the Guinean authorities responsible for public order to demonstrate restraint and responsibility and honor their commitment to the Jan. 2 agreement signed with labor unions in order to preserve "peace and security" for all Guinean people by "upholding democratic principles."

 

The heads of states voiced support for the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union in the search for a solution to the crisis.

 

The 24th France-Africa summit came to an end in Cannes on Friday. The next summit will be held in Egypt.

 

(Xinhua News Agency February 17, 2007)