The UN chief’s deputy spokesman Eduardo del Buey said Thursday that Ban is “deeply saddened” by the continued loss of Pakistani lives to terrorism.

Ban is extending condolences to the families of those killed and to Pakistan’s government. Buey says the secretary-general commends the Pakistani government’s efforts to combat terrorism.

A pair of suicide bombers attacked a top army officer in Pakistan’s southwestern city of Quetta on Wednesday, missing him but killing his wife. At least 22 others died, including several guards, a senior officer and two children. The Taleban claimed responsibility.