SG/SM/6434
12 January 1998

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

"The Secretary-General deeply deplores the continuing loss of life in the tragic situation in Algeria. He appeals to the consciences of the perpetrators to affirm the sanctity of human life and cease their terrorist attacks. The Secretary-General considers it particularly urgent and vital that the innocent civilian population, especially women and children, be protected from the forces of violence in Algeria."