Sri Lanka strongly condemns the terrorist attack on a Christmas Market in Berlin on 19 December.

This attack on civilians at a time of celebration and festivity is an assault on freedom, democracy and pluralism, and an attempt to instil fear and create divisions in society. It is disturbing that the perpetrators of this act unleashed such hatred and violence during a season that heralds peace and fellowship.

The Government of Sri Lanka extends condolences to the families of the victims, and to the Government and the people of Germany at this difficult time.

We wish all those who were injured, a speedy recovery.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Colombo

22 December 2016