Secretary-General, Following Events in Thailand where Army Declared Martial Law,

Urges Restraint from Violence, Respect for Democratic Principles

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

The Secretary-General is closely following the latest developments in Thailand, where the Army declared martial law on 20 May.

He has consistently called on all sides to work together to seek a solution to the prolonged political stalemate through constructive dialogue.

The way to secure Thailand's peace and prosperity is through full respect for democratic principles and engagement in democratic processes.  The Secretary-General urges all sides to exercise utmost restraint, refrain from any violence and fully respect human rights.

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For information media • not an official record