The UN special envoy to West Africa has concluded a diplomatic mission to Côte d’Ivoire, urging political leaders to prioritize peace ahead of the country’s 2025 elections.

Leonardo Santos Simão met with President Alassane Ouattara and members of the opposition coalition, stressing the need for transparent and inclusive polls.

The envoy’s visit is part of ongoing UN efforts to support electoral stability in the region, especially as tensions simmer in parts of West Africa.

Côte d’Ivoire heads to the polls in October, with both domestic and international observers closely watching the lead-up to the vote.