MEA condemns terrorist attacks in Mali, calls for regional stability

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement on Tuesday condemning “terrorist attacks” at various locations in Mali. “India strongly condemns the terrorist attacks targeting multiple locations in Mali. We express our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and our solidarity with the government and people of Mali. We also express our sincere condolences over the death of General Sadio Camara, Minister of Defense of Mali, in a terrorist attack. “ “India reaffirms its firm commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and supports efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region,” the statement added.Mali is suffering its largest organized armed attack in more than a decade, with al-Qaeda-linked groups and Tuareg separatists launching near-simultaneous attacks on key locations, including Bamako airport, the garrison town of Kati and cities in the north and centre. A car bomb reportedly killed the defense minister while rebels claimed control of the strategic northern city of Kidal. The attack marked a sharp deterioration in security, despite the backing of Russia’s military junta, as rebels stepped up their operations and weakened state control across the country.