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United Nations Secretary General Press Release, 97-01-10
10 January 1997
Press Release
SG/SM/6141
SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES CONCERN OVER INCREASED TENSIONS IN CYPRUS
The following statement was issued today by the Acting Spokesman for
Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
The Secretary-General is concerned by the increase in tensions in
Cyprus. The Security Council, most recently in its resolution 1092 of 23
December 1996, has expressed grave concern about the excessive levels of
military forces and armaments in the Republic of Cyprus and the rate at
which they are being expanded, upgraded and modernized, including the
introduction of sophisticated weaponry. The Secretary-General believes that
the events of the past week once again underline the inherent instability
of the status quo and add urgency to the concerted efforts to achieve an
overall political settlement through negotiations. He underscores the
importance of carefully prepared, face-to-face talks between the
leaders. He calls upon the parties to respond positively to the various
ideas the United Nations has put forward to reduce tension and avoid risk
of confrontation on the island and urges all parties to exercise maximum
restraint. The Secretary-General reminds all sides that the United Nations
Charter forbids the threat or use of force in situations such as this.
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