Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

World Video | Defence | Foreign Affairs | Natural Events | Trade | NZ in World News | NZ National News Video | NZ Regional News | Search

 

Ban Ki-moon condemns Texas shooting

Ban Ki-moon condemns Texas shooting, says ‘ideas must be defended through democratic debate and dialogue’


Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. UN Photo/Mark Garten (file)

4 May 2015 – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned yesterday’s shooting in Texas that injured a law enforcement officer, reiterating that such criminal acts have nothing to do with religion or belief.

In response to a question asked during the daily briefing at UN Headquarters in New York, a note to reporters issued by Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said the Secretary-General condemns the attack by two gunmen who opened fire and injured a security guard in Texas yesterday.

According to news reports, the shooting incident took place in the Dallas suburb of Garland outside a venue hosting a controversial cartoon exhibit.

The Secretary-General in his statement reiterated that such criminal acts have nothing to do with religion or belief. “Ideas must only be defended through democratic debate and dialogue. There is no justification for violence,” said the note.

“The Secretary-General underlines that freedom of expression and tolerance are essential elements of peaceful societies and must be strongly upheld,” said the note, which added that Mr. Ban recalled the importance of promoting intercultural dialogue and respect as crucial means to prevent and address extremism.

“The Secretary-General wishes the injured security guard a swift recovery,” the note concludes

ENDS


Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
World Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.