Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on the bomb attack in Mogadishu

BRUSSELS, Kingdom of Belgium, September 13, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"I utterly condemn today's attack on the Jazeera Hotel in Mogadishu. It is an appalling assault against both the new President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud, and the recent political progress in Somalia. Monday's successful and peaceful Presidential election was a clear signal of hope and change.

I am relieved that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud is unhurt but am saddened by the reported deaths and injuries of Somalis and soldiers of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), who were caught in the blast outside the building.

Today's attack serves as a reminder that Somalia remains fragile. I hope that the people of Somalia and their new President will now be even more determined to realise their hopes and aspirations.

The EU is ready to support Somalia on its new course to peace and stability."