New York

31 January 2013

Note to correspondents in response to questions about a statement from Moaz Al Khatib

The Secretary-General welcomes the recent statement by Mr. Moaz Al Khatib and his openness to discussions with representatives of the Syrian Government.  Along with Joint Special Representative Brahimi, he has repeatedly said that the levels of suffering and destruction in Syria are already intolerable.  They continue to appeal to all to end the violence and resolve the conflict through negotiations and a credible process that would lead to a real change, a clear break from the past, and fulfil the legitimate and democratic aspirations of the Syrian people.