In many other countries where Muslims are a majority, and have ruled those lands for centuries, they did not destroy the religious symbols of other people. Such images and symbols of the past still exist in almost all Muslim countries. We denounce the Taliban regime for this act and hope that will reconsider its decision and will give full assurance to the world Buddhist community, and others, about the safety of these historic relics of the past. The world community is rightly outraged at the destruction of these statues and relics. However, it is a shame to see that there is not much concern about the death and starvation of millions of human beings in Afghanistan and Iraq due to unjust sanctions or famine and disease in Africa, not to mention the death, torture, economic blockade and political oppression against Palestinians by the Israelis.
All religions teach that the life of a human being is much more important then any relic.
We should have more concern for human life and their well-being.