Ban Ki-moon deplores attacks on UN mission in Haiti

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today expressed concern over the recent violence in Haiti and particularly the deaths that have occurred amid demonstrations against the high cost of living in the poverty-stricken Caribbean country.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, the Secretary-General also deplored attacks against the UN mission in Haiti, known as MINUSTAH, as well as against the Government and private property.

Mr. Ban appealed for calm and urged demonstrators to refrain from further acts of violence. He also expressed sympathy for the suffering of the Haitian people resulting from the recent rise in food prices, and encouraged international donors to provide urgent assistance.

The spokesperson added that MINUSTAH has taken all necessary measures to assist the Haitian authorities in protecting key installations and institutions.