Chief Minister expresses condolences to Sri Lanka

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo has written to the President of the Democratic Republic of Sri Lanka, Maithripala Sirisena, to express the condolences of the Government and people of Gibraltar in the wake of the Easter Sunday attacks.

In the letter Mr Picardo said: “Her Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar and people of Gibraltar were deeply saddened to learn of the barbaric attacks perpetrated in Sri Lankan churches and hotels on Easter Sunday.”

“Our thoughts and sympathy are with you and all the people of Sri Lanka, and particularly its Christian community, in the aftermath of this devastating assault on the culture, values and way of life that we all hold dear.”

“Gibraltar, its people and Government, send our condolences as we stand with you in unity and solidarity at this painful time.”

The so-called Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attacks that killed at least 321 people, but has offered no evidence to back the claim.