The dimension of the horror embodied in these attacks defies the comprehension of each and every one of us, including those of us gathered here today to talk about the future of Syria. What began yesterday evening as a celebration of football, a friendly international between Germany and France, ended in an inferno of terror. At present all we can say is that we stand firm by the side of our French friends at this time of suffering and despair in France.

At the moment, our thoughts and sympathies are with the victims and their families and friends. I will shortly be meeting my French colleague, Laurent Fabius, and will extend to him the condolences and sympathies of the German people and the Federal Government. We will presently be receiving a report from the French Foreign Minister outlining the situation as it is this morning.