Foreign Minister sends condolences over Kabul wedding blast

Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, on Monday, sent a message of condolence to Afghanistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Salahuddin Rabbani concerning a terrorist attack at a wedding ceremony in Kabul.

Minister Shahid expressed the shock and horror he experienced upon receiving news of the suicide bombing which killed 63 and wounded more than 180 people.

"At this time of national tragedy, the government and the people of the Maldives join me in conveying our heartfelt sympathy and stand in solidarity with the government and people of Afghanistan".

The minister also requested that the message of condolence be conveyed to members of the bereaved families.

The Islamic State (IS) group has claimed responsibility for Saturday's suicide bombing.

Insurgents periodically target Afghan weddings, which are often grand affairs attracting hundreds or thousands of guests, since they frequently lack thorough security.

The message went on to assert Maldives' strong condemnation of such 'cowardly acts of terror' and all forms of violence perpetrated against innocent people.

Furthermore, the message reiterated the country's commitment to the fight against terrorism and provided assurances that the government would continue to collaborate with the international community in eliminating the global menace.