Secretary-General, Concerned about Cambodia-Thailand Border

 

Clashes, Urges ‘Maximum Restraint’ on Both Sides

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by reports of repeated armed clashes between 4 and 6 February 2011 between Cambodia and Thailand around their common border area, which has reportedly claimed a number of lives and led to the displacement of civilians and destruction of property.

The Secretary-General appeals to both sides to put in place an effective arrangement for cessation of hostilities and to exercise maximum restraint.  He also calls on them to continue their efforts to finding a lasting solution to their dispute through established mechanisms and arrangements, and a spirit of dialogue and good neighbourly relations.  The United Nations remains at their disposal to assist in these peaceful efforts.

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For information media • not an official record