The Secretary-General had an extensive discussion today with the Libyan leader, Colonel Muammar al-Qadhafi, on the deteriorating situation in that country.

The Secretary-General expressed deep concern at the escalating scale of violence and emphasized that it must stop immediately. He reiterated his call for respect for basic freedoms and human rights, including peaceful assembly and information.

Reacting to the leader's interpretation of the events and the response of the authorities, the Secretary-General underlined the need to ensure the protection of the civilian population under any circumstances. He urged all parties to exercise restraint and called upon the authorities to engage in broad-based dialogue to address legitimate concerns of the population.

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