Secretary-General Deplores Violence against Peaceful Demonstrators in Syria,

 

Says There Is No Alternative to Immediate, Inclusive Dialogue on Reforms

 

The following statement was issued on 2 April by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the situation in Syria, where more civilian deaths have been reported during the latest popular demonstrations.  He deplores the use of violence against peaceful demonstrators and calls for it to cease immediately.  The Secretary-General reiterates his call on the Syrian Government to abide by its international human rights obligations.  The Secretary-General takes note of the announced intention of the Government to implement reforms, and is convinced that there is no alternative to an immediate and inclusive dialogue on comprehensive reforms to address the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.

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For information media • not an official record