[Dawn] Italy will present a resolution on the protection of religious minorities at the next United Nations' general assembly, Foreign Minister Franco Frattini said on Monday.
| I like that better than forbidding blasphemy, even to unbelievers. |
"Freedom of religion is a principle that applies to every religion," Frattini said after meeting in Rome with Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan's minister for minorities, a Catholic. "We are greatly concerned by the persecution of Christians in many countries around the world," Frattini said, adding, "Over the past months in Pakistan Christians were murdered in some villages, stirring consciences in Europe and also in Italy."
Two Christian brothers accused of writing a blasphemous pamphlet critical of the Prophet Mohammed were shot dead in July outside a court in eastern Pakistan. In August 2009, eight Christians were burned alive after being accused of blasphemy.
"We have to say clearly that if there is a clash, it is between extremists, not between Christians and Muslims," Frattini said.
| So, Christian extremists fought with Muslim extremists, and the Christians were burnt alive in the process? I think Mr. Frattini needs to ponder what exactly he means to say before opening his mouth. |
Bhatti said he "appreciated Frattini's commitment on religious freedom,"adding that the Pakistani government had "taken many steps forward" on the issue.
| For a given definition of many that means none and of forward that means no movement whatsoever, yes. |
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