It has been reported that Thai protesters ignored official orders to clear Bangkok's business district Tuesday and the government declared the day a holiday to promote public safety.

There were reports of renewed clashes Monday between protesters and government forces. A U. N. official appealed to protesters and the government to begin talks to prevent further loss of life.

The Bangkok Post has reported that there had been hopes of talks between the government of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship, which is leading the 2-month-old Red Shirt protest. But the talks did not materialize, as protesters anticipated the military would bring massive reinforcements into the main Ratchaprasong business district where the protesters have been encamped.

The protest rallies and violence must end before there can be any talks, the government has said.

Clashes between protesters and security forces escalated last week, leaving at least 37 people dead and bringing the death toll since the start of the protests close to 70. Hundreds more have been injured.

The Post has reported that protesters want the Abhisit government to resign and call new elections. Red Shirt leader Natthawut Saikua urged Abhisit not to rule out talks with the protesters even though earlier rounds had failed. He said it may take time to start the talks but "I believe it's better than letting the killings continue." (With Inputs from Agencies)