EP condemns violence against Christians in Syria, Pakistan Iran

BRUSSELS, Oct 10 (KUNA) -- The European Parliament (EP) on Thursday passed three separate resolutions, condemning violence against Christians in Syria, Pakistan and Iran, as well as the acts of terrorism and sectarian violence in Iraq. The resolution expressed concern for Christians in Syria, condemning attacks on them in Maaloula and the surrounding area; it calls for monasteries in the region to be protected and for immediate support and humanitarian assistance to nuns and orphans trapped in the Convent of St Tekla. They also condemned attacks in Pakistan on the All Saints Church in Peshawar, and expressed deep concern about the general situation of religious minorities in Pakistan and especially the Christian churches.
The fate of Pastor Saeed Abedini in Iran is also a matter of deep concern said the resolution and called on the government to exonerate and release him immediately. The resolution strongly condemned the recent acts of terrorism and sectarian violence in Iraq, calling on the authorities "to facilitate a full and swift independent international investigation." "All leaders and players in society should "start to work together to end the bloodshed and ensure that all Iraqi citizens feel equally protected", noted the resolution.
The resolution called for the restoration of human rights and fundamental freedoms following recent protests and demonstrations in Sudan, urging the Sudanese Government "to cease all forms of repression against those who exercise their right to freedom of expression." (end) nk.gb KUNA 102006 Oct 13NNNN