Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Foreign Affairs Shah Mahmood Qureshi, in a telephonic conversation, told Canadian counterpart Marc Garneau that Islamophobic attack was a matter of serious concern causing anguish among the Muslims worldwide.

The foreign minister was referring to the killing of four members of Pakistan-origin family in a vehicle attack, took place on Sunday in the Ontario province. During the conversation, matters pertaining to the recent tragic incident of Islamophobia in Ontario, and bilateral ties were discussed.

The foreign minister appreciated the fact that the Canadian government, civil society, media and general public had extended support to the family of the victims in this hour of grief. He particularly lauded strong condemnatory statement issued by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who termed this attack as Islamophobic.

He expressed hope that the perpetrator of the crime would be brought to justice. He briefed the Canadian counterpart on efforts undertaken by the government of Pakistan to raise awareness and to curtail the growing Islamophobic tendencies.

He underscored that the international community must show a common resolve against the rising trend of Islamophobia and promote peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony. The two ministers agreed to work together on countering Islamophobia through coordinated efforts at various international fora and agreed to instruct their permanent representatives in New York to work together in this regard.

Both the foreign ministers further agreed to remain in close contact.