The Secretary-General was deeply distressed to learn about the attack on two UN High Commissioner for Refugees [UNHCR] workers today in Quetta, Pakistan that took the life of Syed Hashim and resulted in the apparent abduction of John Solecki. He condemns, in the strongest terms, attacks on UN staff who serve the neediest people around the world. Such acts are aimed, not only against UN personnel, but also against those they serve selflessly and with dedication.

The Secretary-General expresses his deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Hashim and calls for the immediate and safe release of Mr. Solecki.