Ban calls on Pakistan's leaders to resolve differences through dialogue

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, concerned about the current political crisis in Pakistan, has called on the country's leaders to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences.

There is reportedly growing tension in the South Asian nation amid a dispute between President Asif Ali Zardari and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif concerning the restoration of fired judges and other issues. This has been accompanied by increasing demonstrations around the country.

“The Secretary-General is concerned about the current political and security situation in Pakistan,” UN spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters in New York.

“Pakistan's leaders, whether in power or in the opposition, have the responsibility first and foremost to ensure the safety and security of the Pakistani people,” Mr. Haq said. “Any action that they undertake should bear this in mind.

“The Secretary-General calls upon Pakistan's leaders to solve all their differences through an honest dialogue to be able to deal with the multitude of challenges the country and the region face,” the spokesperson added.