UN strongly condemns attacks on minorities in Pakistan

The United Nations strongly condemned the ongoing violence in the country, particularly the recent tragic events in Quetta, Karachi and this past weekend in Lahore, especially targeting religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan. “All human beings have equal right to life irrespective of diversities and differences in religious or political beliefs. It is alarming that in one year hundreds of Pakistanis belonging to different minority groups have been killed which is denial of right to life and disrespect of humanity,” said Timo Pakkala, United Nations resident coordinator, in a statement today in Islamabad. It said in the face of the recent attacks on religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan, the United Nations secretary-general had called for swift and determined action against those claiming responsibility and perpetrating such actions. “The United Nations reiterates its strong support for efforts by the government and people of Pakistan to protect religious and ethnic minorities.” “Pakistan is embarking on an important political transition that people hope will help realise their aspirations towards a stable, prosperous and democratic Pakistan. The gains that the country has made in recent years in many areas in human rights must not be put in jeopardy by the intolerance of a few. The United Nations urges the Government and all political parties to accelerate efforts to build harmony and peace among different sections of society and take concrete measures to protect the existence and identity of ethnic, cultural and religious minorities in Pakistan,” Pakkala said.