Commonwealth Secretary-General Offers a Statement on the Attacks in New Zealand

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland Friday condemned the terror attack in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Forty people were killed in a shooting attack on the southern island of New Zealand on Friday when a gunman opened fire inside two mosques.

“On behalf of the Commonwealth family I convey my deepest sympathy to the people of New Zealand and to all those directly affected by the appalling acts of hate-fuelled violence that have been inflicted on the community in Christchurch.

“It is particularly shocking that such an attack should take place in houses of prayer, and our thoughts are with the families and others close to those who have been killed, or are casualties and suffering physical or mental distress. We salute the emergency services and all who are working to deal with the aftermath of this outrage.

“The people and nations of the Commonwealth, including New Zealand, work together to bring understanding and cohesion. And we will not be swayed from our collaboration and determination to build peace and understanding, and to counter violent extremism and hatred in all their forms and from whichever quarter they come.”