Strasbourg, 16/04/2013 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 16 April, Europeans condemned the two bomb blasts in the United States on Monday 15 April during the Boston marathon - in which over 16,000 people were participating. The explosions left at least three people dead, including a boy of eight, and over 140 injured, several of whom have had to have amputations.
President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy condemned the “appalling acts”, deeply regretting “the tragic outcome and loss of innocent lives”. He extended the EU's support to the American people and authorities. Van Rompuy called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
In plenary session at the European Parliament, President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso also condemned the attacks and expressed his sympathy and solidarity with “our American friends on this sad day”, as did President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz. “At this stage it is unclear who planted and detonated the bombs, yet I state unequivocally that terrorism can never be justified. We stand together with our American friends”, Schulz said. He also paid tribute to the American authorities and rescue teams “who are dealing with this tragedy”. Reiterating that the Boston marathon is “one of the most popular running events in the world” and that it “brings people together from all over the world”, he stated that “the city of Boston represents America's strive for freedom like no other”. The leaders of the European Parliament's political groups joined this message. “It is unacceptable. This terrorism must be fought firmly”, said Joseph Daul (EPP, France).
“Shocked” by “the terrible bomb attack” that was “deliberately targeting men, women and children enjoying and participating in a sporting event”, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton said that such acts are reprehensible and condemned the bombing. She stated that her thoughts went to the families of the victims and wished speedy recoveries to those who have been injured.
Firmly condemning this “despicable act”, the president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Jean-Claude Mignon, said that “a massacre of innocents is never justified”. He said he was “sure that the American authorities will do all they can to identify and swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators of this terrible crime”.
Many European heads of state and government, and foreign affairs ministers also condemned the attacks and extended their support to the United States. (CG/transl.fl)