Thaindian News

Brussels, July 14 (IANS) Leaders of the European Union Thursday condemned and termed as “heinous” the deadly bomb attacks in Mumbai that killed at least 17 people and left over 130 injured, EuAsiaNews reported.

EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said she “was horrified to hear that Mumbai has again been the target of a series of deadly bomb attacks”.

Ashton condemned the “heinous acts” and expressed condolence to the families of the victims.

“It is essential that the perpetrators of these evil attacks are brought to justice,” she said.

European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek said: “I am devastated by what happened in Mumbai. My thoughts are with the many victims, with their families and friends. On behalf of the European Parliament, I would like to express my deepest condolences and sympathies to them and to the Indian people.”

“I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. Nothing can justify such vile acts of terror. Killing innocent civilians is against everything the most basic laws of humanity stand for. I am deeply appalled by these acts,” he said.

“India and the wider region should strive for the peaceful coexistence among its multiple cultures and religions. I hope that those responsible for terror will be brought to justice. I also hope that forgiveness and reconciliation will prevail,” he added.

Graham Watson, the chair of the European Parliament’s delegation for relations with India, said: “Mumbai seems particularly plagued by such outrageous actions. A mere 12 weeks ago my delegation and I lit candles in the Taj Mahal hotel at the memorial for victims of the last terrorist outrage. The city now sees further bloodshed. Only yesterday I saw friends from Mumbai before they left Brussels to return there.”