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Ban welcomes Bolivia’s efforts at dialogue to diffuse domestic tensions

Ban welcomes Bolivia’s efforts at dialogue to diffuse domestic tensions

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Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the Bolivian Government’s efforts to pursue dialogue with opponents in search of peaceful, mutually-agreed solutions to the problems facing the country, an issue he discussed with President Evo Morales this week on the margins of the annual general debate of the United Nations General Assembly.

Reiterating an appeal made earlier this month, Mr. Ban said he expected that “all parties will refrain from the use of violence to further their positions,” according to a statement issued by his spokesperson today.

Several people lost their lives during violent clashes related to Bolivia’s gas revenues that erupted in the Andean nation over two weeks ago.

Mr. Ban welcomed the “determined” diplomatic efforts of the Association of South American Nations (UNASUR), the Organization of American States (OAS), the European Union (EU) and the Catholic Church, who – together with the UN – are serving as witnesses to the process of dialogue in Bolivia.

He also welcomed the creation of a UNASUR commission of inquiry into the deplorable killings in the department of Pando, Bolivia on 11 September, adding that those responsible should be punished in accordance with the law.

“At this moment of challenge and change in Bolivia, the Secretary-General wishes to express his strong support for the country’s democracy and democratic institutions,” the statement added.