In response to questions raised concerning developments in Bangladesh, the spokesman for the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, said that Ban welcomed the de-escalation of violence in Bangladesh in the past weeks, says a UN News Centre press release.

The spokesperson added that the UN chief is encouraged by the opposition’s decision to participate in the city council elections for Dhaka and Chittagong, scheduled for 28 April, and he appeals to the authorities in all relevant institutions to ensure that the elections will be transparent, inclusive, and credible.

The statement adds that the secretary general hopes that political parties will soon find a way to overcome their differences for the sake of the country's long-term development and stability and that the UN remains fully committed to supporting Bangladesh in that regard.