Alarmed by Continuing Violence, Human Rights Violations, Secretary-General

Strongly Deplores Deadly Cross-border Shootings from Syria into Turkey

 

The following statement was issued on 9 April by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is alarmed by the reports of continued violence and human rights violations in Syria, which resulted in an increased flow of refugees into neighbouring countries.  The Secretary-General spoke this morning with Turkish Foreign Minister [Ahmet] Davutoglu, who conveyed his authorities’ utmost concern over the recent developments, including cross-border fire which resulted in deaths and injuries on Turkish territory.  The Secretary-General strongly deplores today’s fatal cross-border shootings from Syria into Turkey, as well as into Lebanon.

The Secretary-General reiterates his appreciation to neighbouring countries for their hospitality for displaced Syrian nationals, and for keeping their borders open.  After being informed by Turkey last Thursday of the arrival of thousands of new Syrian refugees, the United Nations immediately mobilized emergency assistance to help the newly arrived.  We stand ready to provide further humanitarian assistance.

The Secretary-General reiterates his demand that the Government of Syria immediately cease all military actions against civilians and fulfil all of its commitments made through Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan.  The timeline for the complete cessation of violence endorsed by the Security Council must be respected by all without condition.

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For information media • not an official record