Norway condemns terrorist attacks in Afghanistan, Pakistan

Norway condemns the terrorist attacks that killed innocent people in Pakistan and Afghanistan on Oct. 28. “It is particularly serious that the UN was once again the target. Our thoughts and sympathy go to the victims and their families,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Minister Støre.

Kai Eide speaks at elections press conference at the Presidential Palace in Kabul Oct. 20 2009. Photo: Fardin Waezi (UNAMA).

“It is deeply tragic that people who are in Afghanistan to help rebuild the country, and who are not involved in the conflict, are the targets of such atrocities. This is an attack on fundamental humanitarian principles,” said Mr Støre.

International aid workers are increasingly being targeted directly, and the last two years have been the most difficult ever for humanitarian aid workers. The UN mission in Afghanistan is headed by the Norwegian Kai Eide, and Norway contributes substantially to international efforts, both military and civilian, in Afghanistan.

“Norway will continue its contributions to the international efforts in Afghanistan,” said the Foreign Minister.

Today’s bombing of a market in Peshawar is the latest in a series of terrorist attacks in Pakistan in recent weeks.

“I am also deeply concerned about the situation in Pakistan. It is a tragedy that so many innocent civilians have lost their lives in this way, and a distressing illustration of the challenges facing this region,” said the Foreign Minister.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs / United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)