U.N. to stay the course

Following days of demonstrations and arrests in Burma, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, yesterday, called on the military government to adhere to the “spirit of the efforts of mutual engagement being pursued by the United Nations in the context of his good offices.”

Ban appealed directly to the government, in a statement, to “exercise restraint” in dealing with demonstrations and protesters.

The Secretary General called on all parties not to partake in activities and actions that could be deemed provocative and lead to a worsening of the situation.

In line with the overall strategy adopted by the United Nations toward Burma, Ban urged those involved in the ongoing disputes to engage in a “constructive dialogue” to address the situation inside the country at this important time.

Spearheading the Secretary General’s approach of constructive engagement is Special Envoy Ibrahim Gambari. Gambari has recently met, discussing Burma, with leaders throughout the world and is scheduled to pay a visit to Burma in the near future.