EU condemns Bangladesh terror attack

The European Union on Saturday condemned the terrorist attack at a cafe in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka and said this was a "direct challenge to our global community".

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini in a statement also expressed the 28-nation bloc's "solidarity" with the country, bdnews24.com reported.

"In this dark hour, we stand in solidarity with the people and the government of Bangladesh, as well as with the authorities and populations of countries who have also suffered in this attack," said the statement.

At least 20 hostages, mostly foreigners, and two police officers were killed by seven gunmen who stormed into a restaurant on Friday evening in the diplomatic Gulshan enclave.

The overnight hostage crisis ended on Saturday morning after an hour-long operation by army commandos.

Six terrorists were killed and another was arrested, according to the army.

EU High Representative Mogherini said, "terrorism is a global threat, and as the international community we have to tackle it all together."

"Our first thoughts and deepest condolences go to all the victims and injured and their families, including those law enforcement officers who bravely lost their lives while seeking to thwart this awful crime."

--IANS

lok/bg