The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, has sent a message of condolence and solidarity to French President, François Hollande, the people of France and families of victims, following multiple terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday.
The AU Commission Chairperson says the African Union condemns in the strongest terms these despicable and barbaric acts, and calls for an immediate pursuit of the perpetrators to be apprehended and brought to book soonest.
While wishing speedy recovery to the physically wounded and psychologically traumatised victims of the Paris attacks, the AU Commission Chairperson said the African Union stands in solidarity and in full support of the people of France.
“I learnt with shock and disbelief of the terrorist attacks in Paris, France, while travelling back from the Migration Summit in Valletta, Malta”, Dr Zuma wrote.
Over 150 people are reported dead and hundreds others wounded following terrorist attacks that took place in about six different locations in Paris.
Earlier, Pope Francis said he was deeply saddened by the terrorist attacks in Paris that killed 129 people and left more than 350 wounded. He asked the world to join him in prayer for the victims and their families.
Meanwhile, the Paris chief prosecutor has said three teams carried out the attacks in the French capital.
Francois Molins says seven attackers were killed, and that all had been heavily armed and wearing explosive belts.
Friday’s attacks, claimed by Islamic State militants, hit a concert hall, a major stadium, restaurants and bars.
Story By Catherine Ageno
