China, Japan condemn Quetta attack, back Pak in fight against terrorism

Condemning Monday's deadly bombing in Quetta that killed over 70 people, China has expressed a 'firm commitment to stand behind Pakistan' in the fight against terrorism.

"Deeply shocked and saddened by the terrorist attack which caused grave casualties in Quetta, Pakistan. We express our strong condemnation. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed and injured, and we mourn for the lives lost," the Express Tribune quoted Chinese foreign ministry statement as saying.

The statement added that Beijing opposes all forms of terrorism.

"We will always stand behind the Pakistani side in its fight against terrorism and its campaign for stability of the country and security of the people," it added.

Japan also condemned the attack, saying, "Japan strongly condemns such act of terrorism which targets innocent people as inexcusable."

The press secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in a statement said it intends to support efforts by the Pakistan government to combat terrorism in cooperation with the international community.

French President François Hollande also expressed solidarity to the people Pakistan.

A statement issued by the deputy spokesperson of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development, "France condemns the cowardly attack that targeted the Quetta Civil hospital in Baluchistan. We express our condolences to the families and friends of the victims and assure Pakistan of its solidarity in the fight against terrorism."

A suicide bomber on Monday targeted the emergency services ward at Quetta's Civil Hospital killing over 70 people and leaving scores injured.

Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) splinter group, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA), claimed responsibility for the bombing which occurred at the gates of the building housing the emergency ward.

The blast took place after a number of lawyers had gathered at the hospital following the death of the president of the Balochistan Bar Association in a separate shooting incident the same day.