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Germany condemns attack in Mogadishu

18.10.2017 - Press release

Over 250 people were killed on October 14 in Somalia’s capital. The German government denounced the terrorist attack and wants to support the Somali government by improving the country’s security.

The German government is appalled by the attack that cost well over 250 people their lives and left hundreds more injured on October 14 when a lorry was detonated at one of the busiest crossroads in Mogadishu.

The viciousness and dimensions of this attack make it one of the worst the country has seen, stressed German government spokesperson Steffen Seibert in Berlin.

German government spokesperson Steffen Seibert calls the attack vicious
German government spokesperson Steffen Seibert calls the attack “vicious”© picture alliance / Michael Kappe

Even in Somalia, where people have been living with the constant threat of terrorist acts for so long, this murderous attack stands alone by virtue of its “viciousness and scale”, declared Seibert at the government press conference.

“At this time our thoughts are with the long-suffering people of Somalia, and with the families of the victims and those injured,” he said. This attack has once again made it clear that terrorists in Somalia aim to use their bombs to deny the people precisely what they so desperately want – peace, reconstruction, order and the chance of a peaceful future.

Supporting democratic processes

Seibert stressed that Germany will continue to support Somalia in spite of all the setbacks and all the tragedies. “We encourage the Somali government to continue along the path towards a democratic process, and to stabilisation inside the country, and to do so resolutely.”

Germany is actively supporting Somalia, and in this pursues a holistic approach. As well as participating in EU missions, the German government is making a long-term contribution through development cooperation while also delivering humanitarian aid which aims to alleviate acute suffering.

“Together, this translates as very clear support for Somalia on its way to regaining stability. We will continue with approach most emphatically”, he continued.

Germany's Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel on the attack in Mogadishu

Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel assures Germany's support for Somalia
Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel assures Germany's support for Somalia© picture alliance/Bernd von Jut

“I am deeply shocked by the news of the attack in Mogadishu and condemn this cowardly and devastating act of violence in the strongest possible terms. Our thoughts are with the very many victims and their families.

Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with Somalia’s people and its Government. We will not let up in our efforts to improve the security situation and stabilise the country.”

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