The Secretary-General has been following closely and with concern recent events in Paraguay that culminated in the removal from office of President Fernando Lugo.   He notes the concern expressed by regional leaders regarding the impeachment process and its implications for democracy in the country.

The Secretary-General recognizes the region’s efforts to address the situation.   He welcomes the upcoming fact-finding mission to be led by OAS Secretary General José Miguel Insulza, as well as the extra-ordinary meeting of the Heads of State of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) planned for Friday.

The Secretary-General urges all concerned to work in the days ahead to ensure the peaceful resolution of differences.