Annan 'utterly condemns' suicide bombing in Indian-controlled part of Kashmir

Secretary-General Kofi Annan "utterly condemns" Monday's terrorist suicide bombing in Srinagar in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir, his spokesman in New York said today.

"This act of senseless violence underscores the need to eradicate terrorism from whatever quarter," Mr. Annan's spokesman said in a statement, which also conveyed the Secretary-General's condolences to the bereaved families.

Looking to the broader context, the Secretary-General said Monday's "tragic incident once again underlines the need for a political solution to the longstanding dispute over Kashmir," the spokesman said.

The Secretary-General recalled the unanimous adoption last week of a Security Council resolution deciding, among other measures, that all countries should refrain from providing any form of support - active or passive - to terrorist groups, according to the statement.