G20 urged to help developing countries

The United Nations secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon, is calling for the Group of 20 leading nations to contribute to a substantial international stimulus package to help poor countries weather the global economic downturn.



Mr. Ban is warning that the economic crisis has the potential to cause instability in many parts of the world and that the help should be substantial.



He said the international stimulus should include aid for the poorest and most vulnerable countries.



He said long term public funding from the multi lateral development banks should also be provided to the least developed countries and also to middle income developing countries.