World leaders to address counter-terrorist strategies, EC head Donald Tusk pledges

"France is on the frontline of the fight against terrorism. But [...] this fight is the fight of all Europeans," wrote European Council President Donald Tusk in a letter addressed to French President Francois Hollande.

"This attack is an outrage against France, and against Europe as a whole," Tusk wrote in response to the terrorist attacks targeting several locations in Paris on Friday.

Last night's killing spree, which left at least 128 people dead and some 200 injured, was allegedly committed in retaliation for France's bombing in Syria, Islamic State which has claimed responsibility for the unprecedented violence in the French capital said.

Expressing his solidarity with the French nation, the chief of the European Council pledged to provide support for Paris. "We will ensure that the tragic, shameful act of terrorism against Paris fails in its purpose: to divide, to frighten, and to undermine liberty, equality and fraternity, the values that make France a great nation," he underlined.

Pointing to this Sunday's G20 summit in Turkey, Donald Tusk stated he would demand world leaders respond to the threat of extremism.

"We will make sure that Europe's counter-terror strategy is fit for purpose to face the challenges of the months ahead," he stated.

The European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said he was "dismayed and revolted" by the extreme violence.

In a joint statement released by the European Commission, the European Parliament and the European Council "condemn[ed] these despicable acts that deeply shock" them. (aba/rk)

Source: IAR