ISLAMABAD, May 27: President Gen Pervez Musharraf condemned the bomb blast at the shrine of Bari Imam here on Friday and appealed to people to join hands with the government in ridding the society of extremism. The president expressed deep sense of shock and sorrow at the loss of lives and said it was everyone’s responsibility to eradicate extremism.

Talking to reporters in Karachi, he said Pakistan could achieve fast-paced socio-economic development if the entire nation made concerted efforts and proved with its actions that “we are a moderate Islamic country.”

“Therefore, I appeal to all Pakistanis, each and every individual, that they should stand up against extremism; they should stop if they see anyone trying to incite hatred, publish and spread hate material or misuse the mosque for provoking hatred.” He said police alone would not be able to contain extremism until the entire nation came forward with pro-active efforts.

The president said he could not say definitely at this stage whether the attack was an act of some extremist organization or sectarian violence or result of some rivalry. “But if this is a sectarian incident, I am deeply saddened. Pakistan should practise moderation in accordance with teachings of Islam so that we are able to achieve the goals of socio-economic development.

“This can only be possible if we show moderation and the world sees us as a moderate Islamic nation. Otherwise, it will be extremely difficult to materialize development at desired pace.”

He said the government sympathized with the bereaved families and shared their sorrow and added that a thorough investigation was being conducted to ascertain the identity of the culprits involved in the incident.—APP