Ivory Coast leader calls for peace

The head of the military government in Ivory Coast, General Robert Guei, has appealed for tolerance and peace as his country marks the fortieth anniversary of its independence.

In an address on state television, General Guei said Ivory Coast had to create an atmosphere that would attract investment.

He also praised the former colonial ruler, France, as the most loyal of friends -- appearing to signal the end of a row over French comments that were seen as veiled support for one of General Guei's political opponents. General Guei, who came to power in a coup in December, has promised to restore civilian rule with elections for the presidency in September and for parliament in October.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service