Dhaka cafe attack: Foreign minister for int'l support

Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali today expressed his hope that the international community will support Bangladesh in fighting common challenges of terrorism and violent extremism.

He said this while briefing the foreign diplomats stationed in Dhaka on the recent attack at the Holey Artisan Bakery that resulted in the death of 22 innocent people most of them foreigners.

During his briefing, the minister shared his sentiments and thoughts with the envoys.

While condemning the barbaric acts of terror last Friday, expressed his sympathy to the victims’ families.

Ali, in his briefing, thanked the countries whose leaders called on the prime minister or him or issued statements to expressed sympathy and solidarity with the government and people at this trying time of history.

In this connection, he also referred to the statements by the UN secretary general and UN Security Council, OIC secretary general and EU high representatives.

He assured the diplomats of the government’s resolve to root out terrorism and militancy from the country.

He said that the law enforcement agencies are on high alert and security measures have been strengthened.

The foreign minister said terrorism is a global challenge and Bangladesh will continue to work closely with other countries, regional organisations and United Nations to fight the menace.

He expressed hope that the international community will support Bangladesh in fighting common challenges of terrorism   and violent extremism.

Around 50 diplomats, most of them, ambassadors and high commissioners of different countries and organisations including US, UK EU, Japan, Italy, Turkey, India Pakistan, South Korea, Iran, Canada, Switzerland, Brazil, Germany, France, Palestine, Indonesia, China, Sweden, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, Australia, WHO, WFP attended the briefing.

The envoys expressed condolences to those killed by the terrorists in the heinous attack.

While acknowledging that most nations today face terrorism, the envoys expressed their views on the measures that could be taken to further strengthen the counter terrorism efforts.

The 50-minute briefing was held at state guesthouse Padma at 11:10am.

Twenty hostages were brutally murdered during the chilling siege before the commandoes stormed the popular hangout in Dhaka's diplomatic zone Saturday morning.

Thirteen hostages were rescued while six of the gunmen, who attacked the upscale eatery on Road 79 Friday night, were killed in the 50-minute army-led joint forces operation codenamed "Operation Thunderbolt".

Two police officials were killed and dozens others injured on Friday night when law enforcers in groups attempted to close in on.

Global terror outfit Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack through its Amaq news agency, according to the US-based SITE Intelligence Group.