Press Statement:

AUC Chairperson condemns the terrorist attack in China, calls for joint international action

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 23 May 2014. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma condemns the barbaric acts of terrorism that left 31 people dead and many others wounded in Xinjiang, China. The Chairperson calls on the international community to take resolute action, and in unison, to combat the growing wave of terrorism around the world, and to suppress with unrivalled determination the evil forces behind the phenomenon.

The Chairperson stresses that this attack is a reminder of the continued threat that terrorism and violent extremism poses to the entire world, and highlights the need for continued and enhanced international action to address this scourge.

The AU also joins the international community in strongly condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever and for whatever purposes. Accordingly, she expresses Africa's commitment to fully play its role in the global efforts to combat terrorism on the basis of AU and international counter-terrorism instruments.

Dr. Dlamini Zuma expresses her heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families and wishes speedy recovery to the wounded. She extends her support and solidarity to the Government of People’s Republic of China.

JEE/wzm