As yet we do not have a complete overview of the situation in Bamako. But I can say this:

Our thanks and respect go to the Malian security forces, who, with French support, managed to ward off the terrorist attack and free most of the hostages, who found themselves in a very dangerous situation.

The terrorists had already committed appalling acts of violence and had the lives of several hotel guests on their conscience. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the victims and their families.

As far as we know, no German citizens were among the casualties. Four Germans were able to leave the hotel uninjured in the course of the day.

Today’s terrorist attack once again brings home to everyone that Mali is still a long way from being stabilised and that Islamist terrorism in the region has not yet been vanquished.

France has assumed a pioneering role in the fight against terrorism and has successfully driven back the Islamist extremists. But the work is not yet done. Mali needs ongoing support from the international community. The EU is embracing its responsibility in the stabilisation efforts, and Germany is involved in EU and UN missions.

We are willing to extend our commitment to stabilising Mali and the region and will examine how and where this would be most effective in cooperation with our partners.