The new UN-Arab League joint special envoy to Syria, Lakhdar Brahimi has affirmed his best effort to put an end to Syria’s crisis.

During a meeting with UN chief Ban Ki-moon at the UN headquarters in New York on Friday, Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi said he will do his best and consider Syrian people’s interest first and foremost. UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon stressed the significant role of Lakhdar Brahimi in promoting peace, stability and human right in Syria. He also expressed his deep concern over escalating violence in the Middle East and reiterated his support for Lakhdar Brahimi.

Meanwhile, the number of refugees fleeing the violent uprising against the government of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria has risen beyond 200,000. According to the United Nations, up to 18,000 people have been killed after 18 months of violence in Syria.