Ban repeats call for release of kidnapped UN staff member in Pakistan

Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, who spoke with President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan today, reiterated his appeal for the release of a United Nations staff member abducted nearly two weeks ago in the west of the South Asian nation.

According to a statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson, the two leaders “agreed on the need to secure the safe and immediate release of John Solecki,” the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) representative in the city of Quetta.

Mr. Solecki, who has been with the UN since 1991, was kidnapped on 2 February and his driver, Syed Hashim, was killed in the attack.

In today's statement, the Secretary-General emphasized the importance of Mr. Solecki's humanitarian work in helping the people of Balochistan.

“He stresses that no cause can be served by prolonging the abduction of Mr Solecki.”

Earlier this week, the UN said it is seeking information on a group called the Balochistan Liberation United Front, which on 7 February claimed in local media reports that it is holding Mr. Solecki.

The world body said that he has a medical condition requiring regular medication, adding that delaying his release will lead to a deterioration of health.