Statement by the Press Secretary/ Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the Serial Terrorist Acts in Baghdad, Iraq

September 15, 2005

It is abominable that many people were killed and injured by a series of terrorist acts on September 14 (Wed) in Baghdad. Terrorism cannot be justified for any reason. The Government of Japan reiterates its firm condemnation of atrocious terrorism that victimizes many innocent people.
The Government of Japan expresses sympathy for those killed by terrorist acts including the latest ones and sends condolences to the bereaved families. We express sympathy for those injured and pray for their early recovery.
As the national referendum on the draft constitution of Iraq, which is planned to take place on October 15, will be an important step forward towards the progress of Iraq's political process, the Government of Japan hopes that progress will be made by the end of this year and that the breeding ground for terrorists' activities will be eliminated as Iraq becomes a democratic and stable nation.

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