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China, US, EU condemn Jolo bombings

Published Aug 25, 2020 02:03 pm

The Chinese Embassy in Manila is “deeply shocked and saddened” by the recent powerful explosions that rocked Jolo, Sulu that killed at least 15 people and wounded 55 others. 

Soldiers stretcher away a comrade after an improvised bomb exploded next to a military vehicle in the town of Jolo on Sulu island on August 24, 2020.
(Photo by Nickee BUTLANGAN / AFP / MANILA BULLETIN)

In a statement, the Chinese Embassy condemned the twin bombings even as it expressed solidarity with the Philippines.

“The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines is deeply shocked and saddened by the bombings in Jolo, Sulu on 24th August which has caused heavy casualties. We join the Philippine government in condemning the attacks, and express sincere condolences to the injured and the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to those injured. At this moment of grief, our hearts are with the Philippine government and people,” it said. 

Earlier, the United States, the European Union, and other members of the international community also expressed support to the Philippines.

“I offer my sincerest condolences to the families and friends of the victims of yesterday’s bombings in Jolo. We join the Philippine government in condemning these attacks and will continue to support our Filipino partners to strengthen national security,” US Ambassador to Manila Sung Kim said in a tweet.

Note the United States continues to provide the Philippines with counterterrorism support, particularly the Armed Forces of the Philippines, through various forms of training. 

The EU Delegation to the Philippines said in a social media post, “Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of yesterday’s bombings in Jolo. We wish all those injured a quick and full recovery. We stand with the Philippines authorities in condemning these attacks. We all stand united against the scourge of terrorism.” 

The Embassy of Belarus in Jakarta also sent its sympathy to the Philippine government hours after suspected terrorists reportedly affiliated with the Abu Sayyaf group carried out the attacks.

“Following sad news regarding bombings in #Jolo, #Philippines the Embassy of Belarus expresses sincere condolences to the people and Government of the Philippines and hopes for prompt recovery of the injured and soon return to peaceful life,” the Embassy of Belarus said. 

READ MORE: Female suicide bombers triggered Jolo blasts; martial law eyed in Sulu

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