Middle East News
German foreign minister condemns Iraqi suicide bombings
Apr 23, 2009, 17:02 GMT
Berlin - German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemned Thursday two suicide bombings in Iraq which killed at least 87 people in separate attacks.
'I fiercely condemn these underhand attacks,' Steinmeier said. 'Our deepest sympathy goes to the families of the numerous victims, and we wish the many injured a speedy and complete recovery,' the foreign minister added.
A man killed 33 people and himself when he detonated explosives strapped to his body in a crowd queuing up for humanitarian aid in central Baghdad, Iraqi police said.
Hours later, a second man blew himself up in a restaurant full of Iranian pilgrims in the province of Diyala, killing a further 52 people and himself, according to police reports.
'The aim of these cowardly attacks is to reverse a stabilization of Iraq in recent months and to fuel religious conflicts. That must not happen.' Steinmeier said.
'Germany and its partners will also endeavour in future to support Iraq in its development and in its efforts at a peaceful balance between religion and ethnicities,' the foreign minister concluded.
Steinmeier last visited Iraq in February, to promote trade relations and bilateral ties between the two countries.
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johnApr 23rd, 2009 - 17:23:37
talk is cheap. last I looked Germany is willing to condemn but not willing to help protect both in Iraq and Afghanistan. Even the Dutch have been willing to put their people on the front lines against terrorists and genocidal maniacs.
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