AKIPRESS.COM - The UN Secretary-General is following the escalation of violence along the Kyrgyz-Tajik border with great concern. He is deeply saddened by the loss of life and extends his condolences to the victims and their families, Spokesman for the Secretary-General Stéphane Dujarric said.

"The Secretary-General calls on the leadership of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Tajikistan to engage in dialogue for a lasting ceasefire. Both sides should take full advantage of the existing mechanisms on the ground to defuse tensions," the statement said.

The United Nations stands ready to assist in identifying a sustainable solution to the border disputes, if requested by the sides.