In progress at UNHQ

SG/SM/7385

SECRETARY-GENERAL CONCERNED BY ESCALATION OF FIGHTING IN SRI LANKA, APPEALS TO ALL PARTIES TO AVOID PLACING CIVILIAN LIVES AT RISK

9 May 2000


Press Release
SG/SM/7385


SECRETARY-GENERAL CONCERNED BY ESCALATION OF FIGHTING IN SRI LANKA, APPEALS TO ALL PARTIES TO AVOID PLACING CIVILIAN LIVES AT RISK

20000509

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary- General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is concerned about the possible humanitarian consequences of the recent escalation of fighting in Sri Lanka. Thousands of civilians are in danger of being displaced. He appeals to all parties to avoid placing the lives of civilians at risk, and to ensure humanitarian access to all in need.

The Secretary-General strongly believes that a political solution is necessary to the conflict in Sri Lanka. He welcomes the offer by the Government of Norway to facilitate such a solution.

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For information media. Not an official record.