City's leaders pay tribute to Benazir Bhutto

Published on Monday 31 December 2007 09:11

EDINBURGH'S political and religious leaders called for a focus on peace and democracy, as they paid tribute to the assassinated Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto.

City council leader Jenny Dawe offered her condolences and said they had contacted local community representatives to offer support and reassurance.

She said: "The council wish to express its deepest sympathy to the Bhutto family at this time for their tragic loss.

"The council, along with many other public authorities across the UK, condemns all forms of violent extremism and is committed to tackling the route causes of the threat posed by violent extremism."

A Church of Scotland representative has announced plans to travel to Pakistan in January, to discuss the Kirk's future relationship with the troubled nation.

Morag Mylne, convener of the Kirk's Church & Society Council, said: "We have to remember that the most important element in Pakistan's future must be the reestablishment of a political and judicial system that is capable of working to justice and peace."