The Secretary-General is appalled and deeply saddened by today's suicide attacks at the Provincial Office near the United Nations Office in Kandahar City in Afghanistan, in which two people were reportedly killed and a large number of civilians were injured including one UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) staff member.

The Secretary-General reiterates, in the strongest possible terms, his condemnation of all terrorist attacks against civilians. He is deeply concerned at the escalation of violence in Afghanistan. Such attacks indiscriminately targeting people and institutions committed to building a better future for the country are morally repugnant and can only set back the efforts to foster peace, reconciliation and stability in Afghanistan.

The Secretary-General extends his condolences and sympathy to the families of those lost in this attack and to the Government of Afghanistan. He also sends his wishes for a speedy recovery to those injured by this despicable act.