UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Sunday called for an immediate end to escalating violence in Thailand, urging both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue aimed at ending the crisis.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ban condemned "the escalation of violence in Thailand over the past week, in particular armed attacks against protesters in which even children have been killed".

He called for violence from any quarter to cease immediately, and for the government to bring those responsible to justice.

"The secretary-general believes strongly that there should be no place for violence by any side in resolving political differences and disputes," the statement said, adding that Ban is ready to assist in any way possible.

The UN chief urged the parties to respect human rights and the rule of law, prevent any new attacks and "engage in meaningful dialogue" toward ending the crisis and advancing reform.

Xinhua

(China Daily 02/25/2014 page10)