Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Uzbekistan

The Secretary-General has been following events in Uzbekistan over the past few days with great concern. He deplores the outbreak of violence in the city of Andijan. He is saddened by the news of the loss of life including civilians, and appeals to all parties concerned for restraint in the use of force.

The Secretary-General calls on all parties concerned to comply with international humanitarian law and cooperate fully with the UNHCR emergency team deployed to the region for providing assistance to refugees coming from Uzbekistan.