The Secretary-General spoke by telephone on Sunday with H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. They discussed the situation in North Africa and the Middle East, particularly including Libya, Bahrain and Yemen.

Regarding the situation in Bahrain and Yemen, the Secretary-General reiterated concern about the continued instability. He underscored his calls for maximum restraint and the importance of protecting civilians and of upholding human rights. He emphasized peaceful dialogue on genuine political, economic and social reform the only way towards sustainable peace and stability.

On Libya, the Secretary-General reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire and for unrestricted humanitarian access to all areas of the country. The Secretary-General explained the work of his Special Envoy Abdul Ilah Al-Khatib in Libya, in close coordination with the international community, including the League of Arab States and the African Union.