UN secretary-general calls for restraint amid cross-border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over reports of cross-border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, his spokesman said Thursday.

Guterres "is following with concern the reports of cross-border clashes between the de facto security forces in Afghanistan and Pakistani security forces," said Stephane Dujarric.

"He urges the relevant parties to comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, and to ensure the protection of civilians," Dujarric added.

Commending mediation efforts by several member states in recent months, Dujarric said Guterres also urges the parties to continue to seek to resolve any differences through diplomacy.