Secretary-General Welcomes ‘Strong and Courageous’ Arab League Stance

 

on Syria Situation, Offers Civilian-Protection Support When Requested

 

The following statement was issued on 12 November by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes the resolution adopted today by the Council of Ministers of the League of Arab States, who have taken a strong and courageous stance regarding the situation in Syria.  He takes note of the decision to suspend Syria from participating in the League’s Council meetings and activities starting from 16 November until Syria implements all its commitments under the work plan agreed on 2 November.

The Secretary-General urges the Syrian authorities to heed the call from the League to stop violence by the army against civilians immediately, and to implement the work plan fully and speedily.  He welcomes the League’s intention to provide protection for the civilians, and expresses his readiness to provide the relevant support when requested.  He is encouraged by the League’s efforts to promote a genuine and inclusive political dialogue, starting with the League’s call for a meeting by the Syrian opposition in the coming days.

The Secretary-General reiterates that all violence must stop immediately to open the way for a credible Syrian-led process of comprehensive political change that will address the democratic aspirations of the Syrian people.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record