EU, NATO condemn terror attacks in New Zealand

By Zehra Nur Duz

ANKARA (AA) - The European Union and NATO on Friday extended condolences over the loss of lives in terror attacks on mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.

“We stand in full solidarity with the people and authorities of New Zealand at this extremely difficult time and stand ready to support in any way, including by strengthening our cooperation on counter-terrorism,” the EU High Representative for Foreign Relations and Security Policy Federica Mogherini said in a statement.

Underlining that “attacks on places of worship are attacks on all of us who value diversity and freedom of religion and expression”, Mogherini said such acts “strengthen our resolve to tackle, together with the whole international community, the global challenges of terrorism, extremism and hatred.”

Jens Stoltenberg, NATO’s secretary general, also condemned the “horrific terrorist attack” against mosques in Christchurch.

“My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones or been injured. #NATO stands with our friend & partner New Zealand in defense of our open societies and shared values,” Stoltenberg said in a Twitter post.

Following the attack, European Council President Donald Tusk also expressed solidarity with New Zealand, saying: “The brutal attack in Christchurch will never diminish the tolerance and decency that New Zealand is famous for.”

Antonio Tajani, the president of the European Parliament, wrote on Twitter: “Images of terrorist attack in #New Zealand leave one speechless. Racist hatred and folly have struck innocent victims murdered for worshipping in mosques. Solidarity with loved ones and prayers for all victims.”