Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, strongly condemning the suicide blast outside Marriott hotel, have reiterated the government's firm resolve to deal with terrorist and extremist elements with iron hand. President Zardari in a statement said that this cowardly act of terrorists will not weaken the government's resolve to firmly and strictly deal with the militant groups, who are bent upon to disturb peace in the country. He said the government was committed and will continue to fight terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations and such dastardly acts cannot dent the government's commitment to fight this menace. The President assured the nation that the government was fully alive to the critical situation and will bring the perpetrators of this heinous act as well as other subversive elements to task. Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) quoted the and Prime Minister as saying that the war against terrorism will continue and the government was fully prepared to meet challenges posed by the extremist and terrorist elements. They expressed deep shock and grief over the loss of innocent lives and said the perpetrators of such heinous crime would not be spared. The authorities concerned have also been directed to conduct an inquiry into the incident and submit a report within 12 hours. The two leaders also appealed the public to remain calm and directed the concerned authorities to ensure safety and security of the people as well as protection of their properties.
