Statement by Ms. Yoriko Kawaguchi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the Terrorist Attack in Jakarta, Indonesia

September 9, 2004

Ms. Yoriko Kawaguchi, Minister for Foreign Affairs, issued today the following statement regarding the terrorist attack in Jakarta, Indonesia.

I am deeply shocked by the huge terrorist bombing attack that occurred near the Australian Embassy in the center of Jakarta (Kuningan district), the capital of Indonesia, on September 9 (Thu) at around 10:25 a.m. local time (Japan time: 12:25 p.m.), causing many deaths and injuries. I extend my sincere sympathy for those who were killed in the incident and condolences to the bereaved families, and heartfelt sympathy to the many injured.
The attack is an extremely brutal and unforgivable act that follows the attacks that occurred in Bali in October 2002 and at a hotel in Jakarta in August 2003. Barbaric terrorist attacks that cruelly target many innocent civilians cannot be justified for any reason, and Japan strongly condemns such acts.
Japan will continue to work proactively in the fight against terrorism in cooperation with the international community, and also provide cooperation and support for the Government of Indonesia in carrying out anti-terrorism measures.
Japan hopes that the cause of the attack will be promptly investigated, and will continue exerting utmost efforts in gathering related security information concerning Japanese nationals.

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