Condemning Terrorist Attacks in Pakistan, Secretary-General Calls for Bringing Perpetrators to Justice

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest possible terms the terrorist attacks on two Christian churches in Lahore, Pakistan during morning services on Sunday, 15 March 2015.

The Secretary-General notes with grave concern that the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attacks while threatening to carry out more such acts in the future.  He calls on the Government of Pakistan to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice and to do its utmost to prevent attacks against places of worship and protect religious minorities.

The Secretary-General extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Pakistan.