02/01/2008 President
I strongly condemn the shameful assassination of Benazir Bhutto in on 27 December. This terrorist act is a clear attack on democratic elections in . I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Mrs Bhutto and the people of .
Her assassination reminds us all that terrorism must be combated internationally by establishing international political and legal co-operation against terrorists while respecting the rule of law and fighting the causes of terrorism.
In several parts of the world, peace is attacked as we have also witnessed by the severe bomb attack in on 25 December, which was also the birthday of Ingrid Betancourt who has been held hostage in for nearly five years.
Terrorists disregard human life and dignity in order to cause public fear and instability for their own political gains. Democratic states are less likely to be destabilised by such atrocious acts. I call on all parliaments and governments in to reinforce their efforts in combating terrorism and strengthening democratic stability by supporting also at international level the common standards set by the Council of Europe in this respect.