Ban Ki-moon Says Civilian Casualties Must Be Avoided In Drone Strikes

Islamabad, Aug 14, IRNA -- United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, said on Tuesday that every effort should be made to avoid civilian casualties in the use of armed drones. Ban, who arrived in Pakistan on a two-day visit early Tuesday, told reporters at an university in Islamabad that drones should be used only for collection of information in accordance with the international laws. He made the remarks when journalists sought his views about the U.S. drone strikes in the Pakistani tribal regions. The US Secretary General also spoke on the drone issue at the start of Pakistan’s visit and urged the operating countries or any group operating armed drones to strictly adhere to the relevant provisions of international laws regulating UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles). “The UN really and strongly urges that all these UAVs should be strictly regulated and controlled under international laws, including international humanitarian laws,” he told Pakistani journalists in New York on Monday. On the first day of his visit to Pakistan, Ban inaugurated International Center for Peace and Stability at National University of Science and Technology in Islamabad, and lauded Pakistans efforts for peace and stability in the world. “Pakistans engagement has been crucial in the UN peace keeping missions as it is one of the largest contributors to the peace keeping missions and currently about eight thousand of its soldiers are performing duties in different conflict zones,” he said. “We will never forget the sacrifices made by Pakistani soldiers while serving under the United Nations flag,” Ban said. The UN chief said nothing can be done for the welfare of people without establishing peace in the world. Speaking at the gathering, Pakistan Army Chief Ashfaq Pervez Kayani pledged continued support for United Nations peace keeping missions. “Pakistan is a responsible nation and has always responded positively to the call of United Nation for its global peace keeping missions.” Gen. Kayani said establishment of peace and resolution of conflicts in any part of the world ultimately contributes to international peace and stability. Speaking on the occasion‚ Advisor on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz said the launch of international center for peace and stability is in complete harmony with Pakistans policy of promoting peace and stability in the world. “Pakistan wants friendly relations with all the countries for world peace and stability. Pakistan remains committed to fighting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,” Aziz said./end