SG/SM/6784

SECRETARY-GENERAL'S DEEP CONCERN AT REPORTS FROM TAJIKISTAN

This statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at reports from Tajikistan, according to which forces under a former Tajik officer have taken over parts of Leninabad Province. The Security Council is being briefed this morning on these events.

The Secretary-General is firmly opposed to this use of force and calls on those concerned to pursue their aims by peaceful means. The peace process in Tajikistan must be safeguarded.

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United Nations