Press Statement Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) on the Terrorist Attacks in Colombo, Sri Lanka
New York – 21 April 2019
Mr. Miguel Moratinos, the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) condemns in the strongest terms the multiple terrorists attacks in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The barbaric attacks targeted Christian worshipers attending Easter Mass, the culmination of Holy Week. The horrific attacks also targeted civilians in a hotel.
The High-Representative reiterated that such heinous terrorist attacks that knows no religion, country or ethnicity are unjustifiable regardless of whomever and wherever they are being perpetrated. He stresses that today’s unspeakable terrorist attacks should not dissuade us from taking a collective stand against terrorism in all its forms and to continue to work to promote tolerance and respect of the other.
The High Representative for UNAOC pledges to continue to work on developing his Plan of Action for safeguarding religious sites to guarantee that worshippers can observe their rituals in a spirit of peace and compassion.
On behalf of UNAOC, the High Representative expresses his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and stresses his solidarity with the people and the Government of Sri Lanka.