Hungarian leaders express condolences over Barcelona attack

Hungary’s president, prime minister and parliamentary speaker have expressed their condolences to their Spanish counterparts over the terror attack in Barcelona on Thursday afternoon.

Áder expressed sympathy for the families of the victims and wished people injured in the attack a speedy recovery.

The president underlined that Hungary and the rest of the European Union would continue to play an active role in the international fight against “destructive violence”.

The foreign ministry also condemned the “cowardly” attack. In a statement, it said that Hungary’s consulate general in Barcelona is constantly in contact with Spanish authorities and would provide any consular assistance needed to Hungarians in the city and family members enquiring about loved ones. The ministry said it was unaware of any Hungarians among the victims of the attack.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán sent a telegram of condolence to Mariano Rajoy, his Spanish counterpart, the PM’s press chief said. Orbán said he was “shocked” to hear of the attack and expressed his sympathy on behalf of the Hungarian people to the families of the victims and wished those injured in the attack a speedy recovery.

“This horrible attack strengthens our conviction that the most important task over the coming period will be restoring the security of Europe and the European people,” Orbán wrote. The prime minister assured his Spanish colleague that the Hungarian government would continue to support Europe’s fight against terrorism.

House Speaker László Kövér expressed his sympathy to Ana Pastor, speaker of Spain’s Congress of Deputies, and Senate President Pio Garcia Escudero. Hungary “strongly condemns such mindless and inhumane acts” and assures Spain of its “far-reaching support” in the fight against terrorism, Kövér wrote in his letter.

At least 13 people were killed and more than 100 injured when a van rammed through a crowd of people in Barcelona on Thursday afternoon. The Islamic State militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Photo: MTI/EPA/David Armengou

Source: MTI