Australian acting FM condemns assassination of Pakistani governor

Australian acting Foreign Minister Martin Ferguson on Wednesday condemned the assassination of the governor of Pakistan's Punjab province, saying it will hamper efforts to create peace and stability in the country.

The governor of Pakistan's Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was shot dead by a member of his own security detail outside an upmarket cafe in Islamabad on Tuesday. He was one of Pakistan's most moderate voices against radical Islam and the encroaching menace of the Taliban and al-Qaeda.

"The death of Governor Taseer is a significant loss to the people of Pakistan and efforts to bring peace and stability to that country," Ferguson said in a statement released on Wednesday.

"Our thoughts and sympathies are with Governor Taseer's wife and children during this difficult time."

Ferguson said Australia remained committed to assisting Pakistan and its people overcome its security, economic and governance challenges.

Source: Xinhua