United Nations, Jan 11 (IANS) UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned what he described as “terrorist violence” in Pakistan, reaffirming the world body’s support for the country in countering terrorism.
“The secretary-general is deeply concerned about ongoing terrorist violence in Pakistan,” Xinhua quoted Ban’s spokesperson as saying in a statement.
“He strongly condemns the multiple attacks today in Quetta and the Swat Valley.”
Thursday marked a bloody day for Pakistan as four blasts rocked the country, killing at least 116 people and injuring 235 others.
In the statement, the UN chief also strongly condemned the targeted killing of Syed Riaz Hussain, president of the Pakistan Peoples Party for Kurram Agency in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).
Ban said Hussain was a strong advocate of democracy and tolerance.
The secretary-general stressed that these heinous acts cannot be justified by any cause.
“He reiterates the strong support of the UN for the efforts of the government of Pakistan to combat the scourge of terrorism and hopes that the perpetrators of these violent acts will be brought to justice,” the statement said.
Ban also conveyed his heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the government and people of Pakistan, as well as to the families of all the victims.
