The United Nations and United States on Saturday lauded Pakistan's Parliament for passing the bill against honour killings.

The US State Department spokesman John Kirby has said that, "The United States welcomes the Parliament of Pakistan's unanimous passing of legislation against so-called 'honour killings'. We commend the efforts of the Government of Pakistan to end this practice," he added.

According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office, Kirby said, "This legislation is an important step toward protecting women and girls in Pakistan and promoting their full participation in society. Raising social awareness and holding perpetrators accountable are critical next steps, and we will continue to support Pakistan's efforts."

"The United States regularly reports on violence against women and girls around the globe and works to prevent and respond to such violence, including advancing accountability by working with law enforcement, supporting civil society's efforts, and engaging with critical stakeholders such as men and boys," he further said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Spokesman for the United Nations, Secretary General Farhan Haq has said, "The United Nations has been expressing its concern over the cases of so-called honour killings and anything that is done to end this practice was welcome."