US condemns Islamabad blast

The US today strongly condemned the blast in Islamabad that killed 23 people, and reiterated its commitment towards cooperation with Pakistan on counter- terrorism issues.
"We strongly condemn this indiscriminate attack on civilians. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims of this senseless violence. We wish those who were injured a full and speedy recovery," said Mark Thornburg, a State Department spokesperson.
"The United States remains steadfast in its commitment to the people of Pakistan in their efforts to counter terrorism and build a peaceful future," Thornburg said in response to a question.
At present, the US has no reports of an American citizen among the casualties of the attack in Islamabad, he said.

A powerful bomb ripped through a fruit market in Sector I-11 on the outskirts of the Pakistani capital today and killed at least 23 people besides injuring over 100 others.