Ban Ki-moon calls for 'utmost restraint' in Turkey-Iraq border actions

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed concern today over the latest escalation of tension along the Turkish-Iraqi border, appealing for “utmost restraint” in actions there and for respect of the border between the two countries.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban also reiterated his previous calls for an immediate end to continued incursions by elements of the armed Kurdish group, PKK, carrying out terrorist attacks in Turkey from northern Iraq.

“The protection of civilian life on both sides of the border remains the paramount concern,” the statement added, as the Secretary-General appealed to the Governments of Iraq and Turkey to work together to promote peace and stability.