We remember the invasion of the Golden Temple in Amritsar against the Sikh faith in 1984, then quickly following, the bombing of Air India flight 182 over the shores of Ireland. We still deeply mourn these losses.

    Last year, thousands of innocent Sri Lankans lost their lives in defenceless attacks against humanity.

    This past Christmas Eve, six members of the Coptic community were shot down for practising their faith.

    Not even two weeks ago, Ahmadiyya Muslims worshipping and attending prayers on a Friday in Lahore, Pakistan faced violent and brutal attacks.

    We have a duty to defend against religious intolerance and the violation of human rights that these deplorable acts of violence, fear and intimidation represent. I urge all members to join together today in condemning these violent acts and call on all governments around the world to bring justice to the perpetrators to ensure religious freedom for all people.