Cyprus condemns Bhutto assassination

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus strongly condemned Friday the “heinous assassination” of Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister and a prominent and courageous political leader of Pakistan.

Her assassination, a reprehensible act of terrorism, aims at destabilizing Pakistan and its ongoing democratic process, a Ministry statement said.

The government and the people of Cyprus, at this critical moment for the people of Pakistan, would like to extend their deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Bhutto’s family, as well as to the families of the other tragic victims of the terrorist attack.

The scale of the recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan is a cause of concern for the entire international community. Cyprus reiterates its commitment to the world fight against the menace of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

In the aftermath of Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, the government of Cyprus calls for calm and restraint in Pakistan and for the continuation of the democratic process in the country. A stable, democratic and prosperous Pakistan is vital for the enhancement of peace and stability in south Asia and worldwide.