Pakistan condemns killing of Kashmir journalist Shujaat Bukhari

" We have learned with deep shock and sadness about the assassination of noted Kashmiri journalist Shujaat Bukhari by unknown gunmen outside his office in Srinagar around Iftar time today. He was known for carrying out his professional responsibilities with courage and conviction. There can be no justification for anyone to commit such brutality, which cannot be condemned enough," Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

' As we pray for Shujaat Bukhari's soul to rest in eternal peace, our profound thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. May the Almighty Allah grant them the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Ameen!," the statement further said.

Senior journalist and the editor of Rising Kashmir, Shujaat Bukhari, was shot dead by unknown attackers in Srinagar on Thursday evening, officials said.

He was attacked when he stepped out of his office at Press Colony in the city in the evening. He was reportedly heading for an Iftar Party.

Bukhari was hit by multiple bullets which were shot at him from close range.

The bullets also hit two security guards who were protecting him. They are critical at the moment.

According to one report, Bukhari was in his car when he was attacked while his driver and personal security officer (PSO) were also injured.

Bukhari was once attacked in 2000 as well and received police protection since then.

The attack on a senior journalist after a long time has shaken the entire Valley.

While a former colleague recalled him as a journalist with balanced views, in an editorial in Rising Kashmir last year, he had written: "If Delhi cant give the people Azadi, it cannot deprive them of autonomy either.