The President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek, made the following statement on today's lethal bomb attacks in Mumbai:

"I am devastated by what happened today in Mumbai. My thoughts are with the many victims, with their families and friends. On behalf of the European Parliament, I would like to express my deepest condolences and sympathies to them and to the Indian people.

I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. Nothing can justify such vile acts of terror. Killing innocent civilians is against everything the most basic laws of humanity stand for. I am deeply appalled by these acts.

India and the wider region should strive for the peaceful coexistence among its multiple cultures and religions. I hope that those responsible for terror will be brought to justice. I also hope that forgiveness and reconciliation will prevail."

• Marcin Grajewski

  Press Team Leader

  Mobile: +32 498 981 550

• Friedrich Bokern

  Press Officer

  Mobile: +32 498 981 348