Zardari asks UN to criminalise ‘hateful acts’ against religion

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Washington, Sept. 26: Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has moved the United Nations to immediately take notice of the anti-Islam film, insisting that such acts need to be criminalised.

“Before I take up my speech, I want to express the strongest condemnation for the acts of incitement of hate against the faith of billions of Muslims of the world and our beloved prophet, Mohammad (Peace Be Upon Him),” The Express Tribune quoted Zardari, as saying at the outset of his speech at the 67th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

“The International community must not become silent observers and should criminalise such acts that destroy the peace of the world and endanger world security by misusing freedom of expression,” he said.

“Pakistan moves the United Nations to immediately address in earnest this alarming concern and the widening rift to enable the comity of nations to be one again,” he added.

“Our economy, our lives, our ability to live… have been challenged. Globally, we face enormous challenges. Our condition today is a product of dictatorships,” Zardari further said, adding that drone strikes and civilian casualties have continued to add to the complexity of this war.

Rebutting critics and constant demands to do more, he said: “To those who say we have not done enough, I say in all humility: Please do not insult the memory of our dead, and the pain of our living. Do not ask of my people, what no one has ever asked of any other peoples. Do not demonise the innocent women and children of Pakistan.” (ANI)