Sri Lanka condemns in the strongest possible terms the heinous terrorist suicide attacks targeting worshippers who were attending Sunday prayers at two Christian churches at Youhanabad, Lahore in Pakistan on 15 March 2015 killing 16 people and injuring more than 70 people.

This dastardly act against a religious congregation engaged in the practice and sustenance of their faith and spiritual upliftment is not only an attack against a group and places of worship but against humanity and the civilized world.

Sri Lanka as a country which has suffered from the scourge of terrorism for more than 30 years share the grief and pain of the people of Pakistan at this moment of distress. Sri Lanka reiterates its solidarity with Pakistan in its efforts in eliminating terrorism from Pakistan. Sri Lanka extends deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved and prays for speedy recovery of the injured.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Colombo 

17th March 2015