Arab League: The Arab League issued a statement, saying in part "The…League urges Tunisia to quickly get through the current turbulent phase, restore stability and calm and the state’s ability to work effectively to respond to the aspirations and requirements of the people."[citation needed] European Union: A spokeswoman for the European Commission stated that "We are closely following the latest developments in Tunisia, [and] call on all Tunisian actors to respect the Constitution, its institutions and the rule of law. We also call on them to remain calm and to avoid any resort to violence in order to preserve the stability of the country."[1] The International Monetary Fund offered to continue assisting the country with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic: "Tunisia continues to face extraordinary socio-economic pressures, including as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is causing tragic loss of life, and Tunisian’s unmet aspirations for higher, job-rich, and inclusive growth." Tunisia had requested a three-year $4 billion loan "to help stabilise its balance of payments position after its current account deficit widened to 7.1 percent of GDP last year."[2] United Nations: A spokesperson for Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres, Farhan Haq, called on both sides to "exercise restraint, refrain from violence and ensure that the situation remains calm.