SG/SM/10334
3 February 2006
Secretary-General Concerned by Danish Cartoon Controversy, Says Exercise of Press Freedom Should always Respect Religious Beliefs
NEW YORK, 2 February (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
The Secretary-General is concerned over the controversy that has been created by the publication of the Danish cartoons. He believes that the freedom of the press should always be exercised in a way that fully respects the religious beliefs and tenets of all religions. The Secretary-General also believes in the importance of overcoming misunderstandings and animosities between people of different beliefs and cultural traditions through peaceful dialogue and mutual respect.
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