Statement by Foreign Press Secretary Norio Maruyama:

In relation to the large number of casualties arising from the explosion of a vehicle loaded with explosives at the Abagedo market in Mogadishu City, the Federal Republic of Somalia on February 20 (February 19 local time), Japan extends its sincere condolences to the bereaved families, and expresses its heartfelt sympathy to those who were injured.

Japan, alongside the international community, has always strongly condemned terrorism in all forms, and supports the international community’s fight against terrorism. Japan expresses its strong solidarity with the Government and people of Somalia, and hopes that efforts to establish peace in Somalia make further progress under H.E. Mr. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmajo, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, who was elected on February 8.