February 13, 2015 - Andrew Bennett, Canada’s Ambassador for Religious Freedom, today issued the following statement:
“I was deeply disturbed by the targeted attack against a Shi’a Muslim place of worship in Hayatabad, Pakistan, today that claimed the lives of nearly 20 and left many more injured. This attack comes only two weeks after another place of worship fell victim to senseless violence.
“Canada condemns all acts of terrorism. The targeting of religious communities, including the Shi’a Muslim community, is an attack on the religious freedom of all.
“We call for a united effort within the Government of Pakistan to ensure the protection of places of worship and to uphold the right of all religious communities to practise their faiths in peace and security, free from violent attack.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my prayers and deep condolences to the loved ones of those killed in this attack and wish a swift recovery to the injured.”
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