The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:
The Secretary-General strongly condemns today’s tragic assassination of Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, a prominent advocate for minority rights and a promoter of interfaith understanding. This follows the recent assassination of the Governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer, which the Secretary-General also strongly condemned. The Secretary-General encourages the Government of Pakistan to continue its efforts to combat terrorism, protect the rights of minorities and promote tolerance. The Secretary-General extends his condolences to Mr. Bhatti’s family and the Government and people of Pakistan.
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