Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier issued the following statement in Gelsenkirchen today (25 August) on Tuesday’s attack in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar:

“I’m appalled at this atrocious attack, which claimed many lives and left many others injured, and condemn it in the strongest possible terms. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the friends and families of those who were killed and I wish those injured a speedy recovery.

Clearly, the attackers are aiming to destabilize the security situation in Afghanistan and to make the democratic process impossible following the elections. This tactic must not and shall not succeed.

At this difficult time, Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with the Afghan people as they strive to build a better and more secure future.”