Concerned about Growing Polarization in Maldives, Secretary-General Urges Government, Political Parties to Work for Mutually Acceptable Solutions

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

The Secretary-General is concerned by the increasing polarization in the Maldives, which has made dialogue among the Government and political parties increasingly difficult.

The Secretary-General strongly encourages all concerned to work towards an inclusive dialogue aimed at finding mutually acceptable solutions based on compromise, the primacy of the national interest and the preservation of democratic principles and institutions.  The United Nations reiterates its readiness to extend its support to an inclusive and genuine dialogue and continue facilitation efforts.