Remarks by Pakistan on the loss of UNICEF and UNHCR staff members in the Peshawar blast (10 June 2009)

Thank you Mr. President,

Our delegation has requested the floor to express our heartfelt condolences and deep commiserations to the families of the innocent victims of heinous act of terrorism in a hotel in Peshawar yesterday. Of those who lost their lives included two UN staffers - Ms. Perserverda, a national of the Philippines who worked for UNICEF as Chief of the UNICEF education programme in Pakistan, and Mr. Aleksander Vorkapic, a Serbian national who worked for the UNHCR. These dedicated UN team members laid down their lives while in the middle of the humanitarian work, in a difficult situation. The people and the government of Pakistan deeply value their work.

Mr. President,

This cowardly act of terrorism cannot weaken the resolve of the people of Pakistan to defeat terrorism. The support of international community and the UN system would continue to be crucial in bringing succor to the affectees.