Ban ki-Moon: Violence in Syria must end

Friday, 17 February 2012 11:36 AM

A spokesman for the United Nations secretary general said Ban ki-Moon supports the plan for peace and calls for an end to violence in the country.

"As Syria's crisis has deepened, bringing escalating violence and suffering to the Syrian people, it is critical for the world to speak with one voice to put an end to the bloodshed and to exert maximum efforts to resolve this crisis peacefully.

"Today, the general assembly has done so by indicating a way through the resolution toward a political solution and a peaceful future in Syria, with democracy, human rights and dignity for all of the Syrian people. The secretary-general welcomes this much awaited message, and calls on the Syrian authorities to heed the call of the international community and the voice of the Syrian people.

"The secretary-general joins the general assembly in calling on the Syrian government to immediately put an end to all human rights violations and attacks against its citizens, and to fully comply with its obligations under international law. The Syrian authorities must allow immediate, full and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need. The secretary-general calls on all sides in Syria, including armed groups, to immediately stop all acts of violence. 

"Today, the general assembly has expressed its support for the plan of the League of Arab States to facilitate a Syrian-led political transition to a democratic, plural political system. This process must respect the will and the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.

"The secretary-general is prepared to carry out his responsibilities, as mandated by the resolution, and will work closely with the Arab League and others in the international community to find a peaceful and durable solution which will bring the crisis to an end."
 

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