France, Ivory Coast relations worsen

Ivory Coast's President, Laurent Gbagbo, has accused France of supporting rebels. President Gbagbo says France has committed acts of war against Ivory Coast. He says the French military has been supporting Ivorian rebels.

Nine French peacekeepers were killed during an air raid by Ivorian bombers more than a week ago.

France responded by destroying most of the Ivorian air force.

Hundreds of foreigners are continuing to flee Ivory Coast's commercial capital, Abidjan, because of fears of further anti-French demonstrations.

West African leaders have started emergency talks in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, in an attempt to resolve the crisis.

By Just Us 15 November 04

Ivory Coast accuses France of shooting civilians
The Government of the Ivory Coast is planning to take legal action against French troops accused of shooting civilians. The Ivorian Government is taking its case to the International Court of Justice.