Scores of people have been killed or injured in a series of bomb attacks that hit the Iraqi capital Baghdad today. One of the bomb attacks took place in the immediate vicinity of the German Embassy. In this connection, Federal Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle today (4 April) issued the following statement:

“I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. My thoughts are with the victims’ families and I wish the injured a speedy recovery.

We stand by the Iraqi people and will continue to lend our support and solidarity as they strive towards freedom and democracy.”

One of the bombs exploded in the immediate vicinity of the German Embassy, claiming the life of an Iraqi security guard working for the Embassy. Three more Iraqi security guards were injured in the blast.

Immediately following the attacks Federal Minister Westerwelle spoke on the telephone with the German Ambassador in Baghdad, who informed him of the situation. Westerwelle asked him to convey his thanks to all employees of the Embassy who were carrying out their dangerous mission over what was back home a peaceful Easter holiday weekend.