Coup attempt raises security concerns

UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 12 (UPI) -- A growing fear of the potential for violence in Guinea-Bissau continues to escalate after a recent failed military coup in the country.

The sharp spike in tensions in the small West African country has prompted U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to call for increased international engagement to deter threats to security as the country's new president takes office, the United Nations reported.

Ban said the United Nations remains ready to support the new government. He also voiced concerns about the potential for political and security destabilization.

"This situation occurs at a time when preparations for legislative elections in November are under way and progress is being made to engage the international community to help meet the country's priority peace-building goals, including its fight against drug trafficking," Ban said in a statement.

"All national stakeholders (need) to work cooperatively and peacefully together in the national interest and in full respect of the rule of law."