New York

25 June 2005

Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Uzbek asylum seekers in Kyrgyzstan

The Secretary-General spoke today to President Bakiev of Kyrgyzstan, to ask him to ensure that no further Uzbek asylum seekers are forcibly returned to Uzbekistan. The Secretary-General reminded the President of Kyrgyzstan's international obligations and offered the assistance of the United Nations in resolving the problem. The Secretary-General also asked the President to extend his fullest support to Mr. Kamel Morjane, Assistant High Commissioner for Refugees, who will arrive in Kyrgyzstan this weekend.