Pakistan deplores 'mindless' attack on Kabul university

This act of terrorism is particularly despicable as it targeted an institution of learning, says FO

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan on Monday strongly condemned a “mindless attack” on a university in Afghan capital Kabul, resulting in loss of precious lives and injuries to many more.

Gunmen attacked a campus of Kabul University, killing at least 10 students and trading fire with security forces earlier in the day.

The attackers were targeting students and fired on them as they fled in the Afghan capital, one witness said.

“They were shooting at every student they saw,” Fathullah Moradi told Reuters, saying he had managed to escape through one of the university’s gates with a group of friends.

“At least 10 killed many others wounded,” the senior government official told Reuters on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to speak to media.

The Taliban said their fighters were not involved in the assault. No other group immediately claimed responsibility.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office, in a statement, said this act of terrorism is particularly despicable as it targeted an institution of learning.

"We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wish speedy recovery to the wounded. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the Afghan people in this hour of grief and sorrow," it added.

The foreign office said that Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and will continue to support a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.

Violence has plagued Afghanistan while government and Taliban negotiators have been meeting in Qatar to try to broker a peace deal and as the United States brings home its troops.

A similar attack late last month on an education centre in Kabul killed 24 people, mostly students.