LOC09:43
06:43 GMT
NEW YORK, Feb 15 (KUNA) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concern over the situation in Myanmar, including the increasing use of force and armored vehicles in major cities.
In a statement issued by his spokesman late Sunday, Guterres called on the Myanmar military and police forces to ensure the right of peaceful assembly for demonstrators.
He said what is reported about the continuing acts of violence by security personnel is "unacceptable," stressing that the continuous arrests of political leaders, government officials, members of civil society and representatives of the media, as well as restrictions imposed on the internet and communication services are of great concern.
Guterres also stressed the necessity to ensure the right of freedom of expression, and called on UN members to work on protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the people of Myanmar.
The Secretary General affirmed the unwavering support of the United Nations to the people of Myanmar in their quest to achieve democracy, peace, human rights and the rule of law.
He called on the military authorities to urgently allow his special envoy, Christine Bergner, to visit Myanmar on agreed terms and to directly assess the situation. (end)
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