IOC chief condemns Afghan bombing

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach condemned the suicide bombing at a volleyball tournament in Afghanistan.

The lone bomber detonated explosives Sunday during a local volleyball tournament held in Paktika province, killing at least 45 people, Xinhua reported.

"This was cowardly attack and I speak for the whole Olympic Movement in condemning this barbaric act which targeted innocent spectators at a sports tournament," Bach said in a statement.

"It is an attack on sport itself and on the positive values it can bring to help build strong communities and foster peace and reconciliation around the world. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we wish those injured a speedy recovery."