Australia has strongly condemned absurd and barbaric terror attacks on churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka on the holy day of Easter Sunday.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne in her statement Monday afternoon said Australia is deeply shocked and saddened by the horrific terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka.
Eight blasts in churches and luxury hotels took lives of 290 people including 35 foreigners. Two Australians were also among the victims.
Australian citizens Manik Suriyaaratchi and her 10-year-old daughter Alexendria were killed when a bomb went off inside the church in Negombo.
“Australia stands with the people of Sri Lanka as they continue to come to terms with this senseless and barbaric attack. The Australian Government utterly condemns all acts of terrorism and violence”, Ms Payne said.
She said that Australian High Commission in Colombo has confirmed that two Australians were killed in these attacks, and two Australians have been injured.
“Our hearts go out to their family and friends at this very difficult time. Out of respect for the privacy of the family, we will not provide any further comment at this time”, she maintained.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Foreign Minister Marise Payne also contacted their Sri Lankan counterparts, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana, on Monday and conveyed Australia’s deepest condolences and offered any support that they may require.
Also, the Department of Foreign Affairs has updated its travel advice to Sri Lanka to “Reconsider your need to travel”. Travellers are encouraged to go smartraveller.gov.au for the latest information and advice.
