We have learned with great sorrow that according to initial reports at least nearly 70 people lost their lives and more than 250 people were injured in a terrorist attack perpetrated against a protest march today (23 July) in Afghanistan's capital Kabul.

We strongly condemn the terrorist attack, wish God’s mercy on those who lost their lives, hope for a speedy recovery to the wounded and convey our condolences to the Government and the brotherly people of Afghanistan.

We believe that those who desire to destabilize Afghanistan by targeting innocent people and shedding blood will fail to achieve their goals, and on this occasion, we once again reiterate our support to the Government of Afghanistan in its fight against terrorism and our solidarity with the brotherly Afghan people.