Secretary-General condemns Baghdad mosque bombings

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General condemns the deadly mosque bombings that took place today during prayer in Baghdad.  He conveys his deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims.

The Secretary-General regrets the continued acts of intolerance and violence, particularly when perpetrated against innocent civilians and places of worship.  Now that Iraqis have successfully held their elections, the Secretary-General appeals to Iraqis of all faiths, ethnic backgrounds and political persuasions to come together in a spirit of dialogue and national reconciliation to build a peaceful, democratic and prosperous Iraq.

The United Nations will continue to stand by the Iraqi people to help them succeed in this critical period of their history.

* *** *