Secretary-General Following with Growing Concern Mounting Violence in Thailand,

Strongly Encourages Protestors, Thai Authorities to Urgently Return to Dialogue

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

The Secretary-General is following with growing concern the rapidly mounting tensions and violence in Thailand.  He is saddened by the reports of numerous civilian deaths, including journalists, as a result of the latest clashes between protesters and security forces.  He appeals to both the protesters and the Thai authorities to do all within their power to avoid further violence and loss of life.   He strongly encourages them to urgently return to dialogue in order to de-escalate the situation and resolve matters peacefully.

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