“This terrible act must not go unpunished. The attack claimed the lives of over 150 people, including two Afghan employees of a security company who were guarding the German Embassy. The act must be investigated rapidly, urgently and diligently, using rule‑of‑law means.

That is also necessary to prevent something like this happening again. We are doing our utmost to ensure the safety of our staff.

Foreign Minister Gabriel spoke with President Ghani by telephone a few days ago and promised him our support in investigating the attack.

The Federal Public Prosecutor General has started investigations. German experts will travel to Afghanistan as soon as possible. In order to solve this crime, there must be close and effective international cooperation with the Afghan authorities and all other countries affected.

We must stand up to terrorism together. It is important now that the people of Afghanistan do not allow themselves to be incited and divided by such attacks and that the Afghan Government takes united and resolute action. Germany will continue to stand firmly by its side.”