A UN Security Council meet has criticised China and Pakistan for persecution of their religious minorities. Western powers such as the US and UK criticised China and Pakistan for the oppression faced by Christians, Ahmadis, Uighurs and other ethnic minorities.
The Arria-Formula Meeting of the Security Council on ‘Advancing the Safety and Security of Persons Belonging to Religious Minorities in Armed Conflict' was organised by Poland, the Council President for August, to mark the first International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief.
Addressing the meeting, US Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Samuel Brownback said religious freedom is essential for achieving peace and stability within nations and among nations. He then called out Pakistan for the persecution religious minorities continue to suffer from in the country.
He also voiced concern over the “undue restrictions” on religious freedom in China. UK, France and Canada also spoke out against the oppression of religious minorities in China and Pakistan. Addressing the meeting, UN chief António Guterres called for an end to the persecution of religious groups.
