New York, 19 November 2013 - The Secretary-General strongly condemns the deadly attacks today against a police station in Beledweyne, Somalia, which follow a number of similar attacks on the Somali people in recent weeks. These acts of terrorism against the Government and people of Somalia have caused tremendous suffering.

The Secretary-General expresses his sincere condolences to the families of those killed and his sympathies to those injured. He pays tribute to the forces, especially the police, who courageously repelled the attack.

The Secretary-General is determined to support the Somali government in preventing such attacks, and in keeping the country on the path to peace and security. He reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to support the Federal Government of Somalia, its institutions and the Somali people.