Islamabad: Paying tribute to all those have suffered immensely at the hands of the terrorists, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said the resolve to fight the menace of terrorism remains unwavering.
The premier made the remark on Tuesday in a message marking on the first International Day of Remembrance of, and Tribute to, the Victims of Terrorism, to be observed on August 21.
The prime minister also paid glowing tributes to thank and honour Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies and armed forces who have rendered immense sacrifices to ensure the safety and security of Pakistan and its people.
Pakistan has been one of the worst victims of terrorism, suffering thousands of casualties in this war, of both civilians and security personnel, he said.
Remembering Pakistan’s worst terrorist attacks, he said in a message that: “We particularly hold in our thoughts and prayers the victims of heartless and brutal attack on Peshawar Army Public School that resulted in loss of more than 130 precious lives. Lives that were lost too early and lives that we will never forget.”
Despite these losses, he added, Pakistan’s resolve to fight terrorism remains steadfast.
“In the face of every tragedy, the resilient Pakistani nation has shown that the values of enlightenment, compassion and empathy that bind us together, are much stronger than the forces of intolerance, hatred, and violence that aim to divide us.”
The message issued by the PM House added that Pakistan stood with the international community to eliminate the menace and would extend all support to those who have been the victims of terrorism.
The newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan reminded the global community that the remembrance of the victims must go beyond mere words.
“The international community must jointly take action to support the victims of terrorism.”
On its part the government of Pakistan has taken a number of measures to support victims of terrorism including rehabilitation of temporarily dislocated persons, rebuilding damaged infrastructure, and payment of monetary compensation to the victims and their families.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the first observance of the day brings attention to victims at the national, regional and international levels.
He said all must support the victims and survivors of terrorist attacks by providing long-term assistance, including financial, legal, medical and psychosocial support.
By lifting up the victims and survivors of terrorism, “we are honouring our common bonds and reducing the lasting damage done by terrorists to individuals, families and communities” UN chief said.
