At this moment of challenge and change in Bolivia, the Secretary-General wishes to express his strong support for the country's democracy and democratic institutions. During his meeting with President Evo Morales this week on the margins of the 63rd United Nations General Assembly, the Secretary-General welcomed the Government's efforts to pursue dialogue with opponents in search of peaceful, mutually-agreed solutions to the problems facing the country. He voiced his expectation that all parties will refrain from the use of violence to further their positions.

The Secretary-General welcomes the determined diplomatic efforts of the Association of South American Nations (UNASUR), the Organization of American States (OAS), the European Union (EU) and the Catholic Church, who -- together with the UN -- are serving as witnesses to the process of dialogue in Bolivia. He further welcomes the creation of a UNASUR commission of inquiry into the deplorable killings in the Department of Pando, Bolivia on 11 September. Those responsible should be punished in accordance with the law.