The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:
The High Representative is profoundly shocked and saddened by the latest wave of terrorist attacks that appear to have killed more than 150 innocent citizens in Kano, Northern Nigeria, on 20 January. She sends her most sincere condolences to the victims, their families and their communities.
The EU resolutely rejects terrorism as a means to any end. It pledges its support to the vast majority of Nigerian citizens who have a long tradition of religious and social tolerance, and who seek to live in peace with their neighbours. We offer our support to the Nigerian people and Government in overcoming this threat to their way of life and their country's stability and democracy.
We will discuss with the Nigerian government in the coming days, including at our forthcoming Ministerial dialogue in early February, possible ways and concrete actions in support of peace, security and development in the country, particularly for the poorest communities.