Voicing renewed concern at the growing violence in Tunisia, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged that all efforts be taken to restore peace and stability in the north African country, according to his spokesperson.

President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali fled the country last week amid the growing protests and violence by protesters reportedly angered by rising prices of essential commodities, lack of employment opportunities, alleged corruption and limitations on fundamental rights and freedoms.

"The Secretary-General appeals for broad-based consultations in Tunisia to establish an inclusive interim government leading to the holding of timely and credible elections through which the citizens of Tunisia can freely choose their leadership," Mr. Ban's spokesperson said in statement, adding that, "the United Nations stands ready to provide assistance to the Tunisian people."

It was the second time in as many days that Mr. Ban has called for dialogue among all sides to resolve differences peacefully and to restore stability to the country.

Yesterday in Abu Dhabi, where he was attending a global energy forum, the Secretary-General told reporters the international community should support efforts to restore genuine democracy in the country.