Statement Attributable to the Spokesperson for the
High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
On the attack outside Mar Mina church in Egypt
New York – 29 December, 2017
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) strongly condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attack which took place today outside Mar Mina Coptic Church in the district of Helwan south of Cairo, Egypt. According to the latest official account, 9 people were killed when a gunman opened fire outside the church.
The High Representative reiterates that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation. He notes that terrorist acts as such, aim at tearing the fabric of the Egyptian society which is characterized by religious unity and diversity.
Last month, terrorists have claimed the lives of more than 300 Muslim worshippers in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Egypt when they detonated a bomb inside a crowded mosque in Sinai.
On behalf of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), the High Representative expresses his deepest sympathy and condolences to the victims’ families and to the people and the Government of Egypt.