Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Rep. Ashton

Statement by the spokesperson of EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the attack against the UN office in Mazar, Afghanistan

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy was deeply shocked by the news that the UN office in Mazar-i-Sharif was stormed by a crowd today, which murdered UN staff members and set the office on fire.

It is understood that the demonstrators had been protesting against the burning of the Koran by a Florida pastor. This is another unfortunate example of how ignorance, intolerance and senseless aggression can victimise completely innocent people whose only purpose was to help Afghanistan move towards a brighter future.

The EU continues to support the essential work that the UN has been carrying out in Afghanistan.

My deepest condolences go to the families of those who have perished so tragically in this attack."

ENDS

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