OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier strongly condemns terrorist attack in Istanbul

BERLIN, 13 January 2016 - The OSCE Chairperson‑in‑Office, Federal Foreign Minister Frank‑Walter Steinmeier, today condemned yesterday’s terrorist attack in Istanbul in the strongest possible terms, and offered his deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and friends of the victims. “This is a difficult time for all of us – a time of grief, rage and shock,” he said.

The attack of 12 January had “once again made it painfully clear that the cancer of terrorism does not spare anyone,” said Steinmeier. “This form of barbaric and cowardly murder poses a threat to all OSCE States and beyond.”

The Chairperson‑in‑Office assured Turkey of the OSCE’s firm support, and urged all OSCE participating States and Partners not to allow themselves to be intimidated by murder and violence.

“On the contrary, we will increase our resolve to work together to tackle terrorism at all levels.”

He said the OSCE would continue to build on a wide variety of approaches and means, ranging from de‑escalation of conflicts, through the police and the rule of law, to efforts to prevent violent ideologies from taking root in the minds of young people.

“To this end the OSCE is already active in many areas. We have to show determination in maintaining this engagement,” Steinmeier concluded.