UN Chief calls to regulate drone strikes

The United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon expressed concern over the killing and maiming of people by the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones, in remarks prior to a two-day visit to Pakistan. In a press statement, the UN chief highlighted the need to strictly regulate use of the UAVs. "The UN really and strongly urges that all these UAVs should be strictly regulated and controlled under international law, including international humanitarian law." He added, "The operations of UAVs are now guided and controlled by relevant international laws, including international humanitarian laws. We expect the operating countries (To follow these) laws." "I have expressed concern on many occasions about the loss of life caused by the armed UAVs," the UN secretary general added. Ban Ki Moon would meet Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, and Advisor to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs and will receive a briefing at the National Disaster Management Authority. He will also meet the Chief Minister of eastern Punjab Province and attend the flag hoisting ceremony as a special guest on Pakistan Independence Day, August 14.