KARACHI, Feb 4: Talking about the recent ordeal that he underwent at an American airport, prominent social worker Abdul Sattar Edhi said this was for the third time that he had been detained at a US airport and interrogated.

Addressing a press conference on Monday following his return from the United States, he made it clear that he visited the United States only in connection with his charity work.

“It seems that my long beard, Pakistani dress and a cap are the reason for my detention, although my humanitarian services are known around the world,” Mr Edhi said.

Americans, he said, were well informed about the world happenings and must be aware of the fact that my mission is humanity, he said, adding: “I work without any political, religious and ethic considerations.”

He said that he had always talked about promoting peace and had urged the developed nations to stop selling arms to the developing or underdeveloped countries and help these countries in eliminating hunger and poverty.

Mr Edhi urged the US government not to compromise on humanity and human rights at the cost of fight against terrorism.

Earlier, he thanked the media, the government and the President of Pakistan who expressed their concern over his nine-hour detention at the JFK airport. He also appreciated the role of the US Consulate of Karachi following which he was handed back the passport and issued green card. —Staff Reporter