Pakistan condemns attack on holy sites

ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan strongly condemns the deliberate and wanton attack on the holy sites in Syria, including the 19th July attack on Sayyeda Bibi Zainab’s (R.A) shrine, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office on Monday.

The statement also noted that the trend of desecration of holy sites has hurt the sentiments of Muslims in Pakistan, as indeed the world over. Such violations, which also fuel sectarian strife, are most reprehensible.

It said: "Pakistan calls upon the Government of Syria to ensure safety and security of all holy shrines and buildings in Syria. Pakistan also calls upon all parties to the conflict in Syria to observe international humanitarian law and help protect the common heritage of mankind respecting the sanctity of the holy buildings and places of worship”.

The statement adds, that the Charge d’ Affairs of Syria in Islamabad has been called to the Foreign Office to convey the concerns of the Government and people of Pakistan on the desecration of the holy shrine of Sayyeda Bibi Zainab.