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New York, 04 March 2022
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Angel Moratinos, condemns in the strongest terms the suicide bomb attack that took place during Friday prayers in a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan, killing at least 57 people and wounding more than 100 according to the latest reports.
The High Representative stresses that all forms of violence and acts of terror against civilians and religious sites on account of their religion or belief are intolerable and unjustifiable.
He reiterates that houses of worship are sacred places where worshipers should be able to practice their faith safely and freely.
The High Representative calls for mutual respect of all religions and faiths and for fostering a culture of fraternity and peace.
He recalls the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites, developed by UNAOC, and calls on all governments and relevant stakeholders to support its implementation. He also invites the global youth and faith communities to join UNAOC's global call to action #forSafeWorship to contribute to celebrate the universality of religious sites as symbols of our shared humanity, history, and traditions.
On behalf of UNAOC, the High Representative conveys his deepest sympathies to the Government of Pakistan and expresses his condolences to the victims' families and wishes the injured a speedy recovery .