Whereas it is in the interest of the United States to maintain a strong relationship with a democratic, peaceful, stable, and economically prosperous Côte d’Ivoire whose leaders prioritize good governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights; Whereas the United States and Côte d’Ivoire have a strong bilateral relationship with important cooperation on economic interests, regional stability, and counterterrorism priorities, and efforts to advance health and development objectives; Whereas Côte d’Ivoire has a presidential election scheduled for October 31, 2020; Whereas previous transitions of power have been marred by conflict and violence against civilians, including most recently in 2010–2011, when 3,000 civilians were killed during an election-related dispute; Whereas the root causes of past political violence—including religious and ethnoregional tensions, contestation over land, politicization of the judiciary and concerns over due process, and a lack of professionalism, adequate training, and civilian control over the security forces—have not been adequately addressed; Whereas political leaders have previously manipulated and exploited religious, ethnic, and regional identities and economic grievances to incite violence including through incidents of hateful and divisive speech occurring both in person and online; Whereas President Ouattara’s decision to stand for a third term, despite a two-term limit in the constitution, has heightened tensions, and several citizens have been killed and dozens more injured or arrested amid protests against his candidacy; Whereas political violence in Côte d’Ivoire could threaten the region’s stability and economic development prospects, and undermine efforts to counter violent extremism and terrorist activity; Whereas the Government of Côte d’Ivoire must protect the health and safety of its citizens and prevent the spread of COVID–19 while also ensuring credible elections and enabling the participation of all voters