UN chief reiterates call on Syrians to stop fighting and start dialogue

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The Government and the armed opposition in Syria have been once again urged to stop fighting and to engage in dialogue.

The call came from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as the General Assembly discussed the crisis in Syria on Tuesday afternoon.

Mr. Ban said that large-scale human rights violations are being reported with both sides failing to protect civilians and respect the rules of international humanitarian law.

"I once again urge the Government and the armed opposition to abandon military activities, engage in dialogue, protect civilians, and abide by their obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law. The United Nations will assist all parties to build a Syrian-led alternative to the use of force. We are committed to helping them determine a path, backed by the international community, to come to the negotiating table and move towards a democratic, plural political system, with equal rights for all." (Duration: 31")

Mr. Ban said those who provide arms to either side are only contributing to further misery and the risk of unintended consequences as the fighting intensifies and spreads.