Paris attacks reaction: World leaders offer condolences and help in finding those responsible

An Indian child pays floral tribute at a sand sculpture created in remembrance of victims of Friday's attacks in Paris, in Bhubaneswar, India, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a visit to the United Kingdom, said he condemned "the barbaric terrorist attacks in Paris in the strongest terms.” (AP Photo/Biswaranjan Rout)

Associated PressNov. 14, 2015 | 11:05 a.m. EST+ More

By The Associated Press

PARIS (AP) — World leaders are reacting to the deadliest violence to strike France since World War II. Some of their comments:

PAKISTAN

Pakistan's Information Minister Pervez Rashid says the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris are "an attack on mankind" and Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In a statement, he said Pakistan "can feel the pain and anguish of the people of France" as his country has been a victim of terrorism.

Rashid said Pakistan is already cooperating with the international community to eliminate terrorism and make the world a safer place. The country's foreign ministry has also "strongly" condemned the attacks and expressed condolences.

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OECD SECRETARY-GENERAL

Angel Gurria, secretary-general of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, condemned the "barbaric" attacks in Paris and offered condolences to the people of France.

Speaking in Turkey before a G-20 summit, Gurria said: "The OECD condemns in the strongest terms the barbaric terrorist attacks perpetrated in Paris last night."

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GERMAN CHANCELLOR AND PRESIDENT

German Chancellor Angela Merkel pledged to work closely with the French government to help hunt for the culprits involved in the attacks and their backers.

"This attack on freedom was aimed not just at Paris, it targeted and it hits all of us. That is why we must all respond together," said Merkel, dressed in black, her voice faltering.

"We, your German friends, feel very close to you. We cry with you," she said. "We will lead this fight together with you against those who did such unimaginable things to you."

She said she would be meeting with the relevant ministers to discuss ongoing developments in France and address questions.

Gauck said while Germany mourns with France, the anger at the murderers must become resolve to defend Europe.

"Europe's values and Europe's freedom have been attacked by powerful enemies throughout history. Nevertheless, our Europe is a fortress of democracy and human rights. Even the brutal attacks of Islamist terrorists won't change this," Gauck said.

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BRITAIN'S QUEEN

Queen Elizabeth II has sent French President Francois Hollande "sincere condolences" to the people of France amid the terror attack in the French capital.

The monarch and the Duke of Edinburgh said they were "deeply shocked and saddened" in a statement released by Buckingham Palace.

The statement says the queen and Prince Philip "send our most sincere condolences to you, the families of those who have died and the French people."

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TUNISIAN PRESIDENT

Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi condemned the "barbarous acts" in Paris as he arrived at the Elysee Palace for a previously scheduled meeting with French President Francois Hollande.

Essebsi called on "all freedom-loving peoples to coordinate their efforts against evil" and said "every country must feel concerned."

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SLOVAK PRESIDENT

Offering his condolences to the relatives and all French people, Slovak President Andrej Kiska said he was shocked and also angry by the attacks. "The terrorists again murdered people in Paris to spread fear and hatred among us in Europe. To spread evil and chaos. After such a hard night, Europe needs even more unity and needs to take a real action. Terrorism never destroys democracy and freedom in Europe if we are able to defend our values: altogether and resolutely."

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INDIAN PRIME MINISTER

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a visit to the United Kingdom, said he condemned "the barbaric terrorist attacks in Paris in the strongest terms."