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France condemns assassination of Pakistani journalist

PARIS, Jan 18 (KUNA) -- The French government on Wednesday strongly condemned the killing Tuesday of a Pakistani journalist during prayer in provincial Mosque in that country.
"France firmly condemns the assassination of Pakistani journalist Mukram Khan Aatif in the Mosque in Shabqadar," in the Kyber Pakthunkhwa region, a statement said.
The French Foreign Ministry labelled the killing "an odious act claimed by the Pakistani Taliban." It urged Pakistan to "pursue and condemn" the perpetrators.
Aatif was a veteran reporter in the dangerous tribal regions of Pakistan, where he had worked for 15 years, including for the local service of "Voice of America".
The French statement recalled the attachment of this country to the freedom of the press, worldwide. (end) jk.hb KUNA 181641 Jan 12NNNN