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Annan condemns Sunday's murder of worshippers in eastern Pakistan

Annan condemns Sunday's murder of worshippers in eastern Pakistan

Deploring the recent murder of a group of churchgoers in Pakistan, Secretary-General Kofi Annan today urged the Islamabad authorities to prosecute the killers and to protect people of all religions in the country.

In a statement released by his spokesman, Mr. Annan expressed his "utter repugnance" at the killings, which took place on Sunday in the church of Saint Dominic's in Pakistan.

"He condemns this cold-blooded act of indiscriminate violence and conveys his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families," said spokesman Fred Eckhard.

Noting that no cause could ever be served by the killing of innocent civilians, Mr. Eckhard said the Secretary-General "calls on the Pakistani authorities to bring those responsible to justice and redouble their efforts to ensure freedom and security for Pakistanis of every religion and ethnicity."