Secretary-General Condemns Syria Killings, Calls for End to Violence

 

The following statement was issued on 22 April by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns the ongoing violence against peaceful demonstrators in Syria, which again has killed and injured many today, and calls for it to stop immediately.  He reminds the Syrian authorities of their obligation to respect international human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as well as the freedom of the press.  The Secretary-General reiterates that there should be an independent, transparent and effective investigation into the killings.  Taking note of the lifting of the state of emergency and of the programme of reforms announced by President Bashar al-Assad, the Secretary-General emphasizes his belief that only an inclusive dialogue and the effective implementation of reforms can address the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people and ensure social peace and order.

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For information media • not an official record