Secretary-General Welcomes Security Council’s Unified Message on Syria,

 

Hopes Presidential Statement Marks Turning Point in Response to Crisis

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General strongly welcomes the adoption today by the Security Council of a presidential statement in full support of the Joint Special Envoy for the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan.

The Secretary-General is encouraged by the clear and unified message of the Council, backing Mr. Annan’s efforts to bring an immediate end to all violence and human rights violations, secure humanitarian access, and facilitate a comprehensive political dialogue between the Syrian Government and the whole spectrum of the Syrian opposition.

He adds his voice to the Council’s in calling upon the Syrian Government and opposition to work in good faith with the Joint Special Envoy towards a peaceful settlement of the Syrian crisis, and to implement fully and immediately his initial six-point proposal submitted to the Syrian authorities.

As the situation continues to deteriorate on the ground, it is more urgent than ever to find a solution that will end the tragic suffering of the Syrian people.  The Secretary-General hopes that this united action by the Council on Syria can mark a turning point in the international community’s response to this crisis.

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For information media • not an official record