SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES BOLIVIANS TO PEACEFULLY, DEMOCRATICALLY, RESOLVE QUESTIONS

OVER RESOURCES, REGIONAL AUTONOMY, CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY

 

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

The Secretary-General is following with concern the growing social tensions in Bolivia.

He urges all Bolivians to peacefully and democratically resolve their differences over major issues of national interest -- the use of natural resources, questions of regional autonomy and proposals for a constituent assembly.

The Secretary-General calls on all citizens to engage in a constructive dialogue to allow for the democratic and non-violent resolution of their differences.  He reaffirms the need to abide by constitutional principles and to fully respect human rights.

The United Nations is ready to assist all Bolivians in finding solutions to the challenges they are facing.

* *** *