Mr. President,

I was absolutely appalled to hear of the assassination of the former President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Professor Burhanuddin Rabbani. At this difficult time I would like to express my deepest condolences.

In his capacity as Chairman of the High Peace Council, Professor Rabbani was working at top level for reconciliation. He has made monumental efforts to overcome hatred and violence in your country, and this act of violence against him is a direct attack on the efforts to achieve peace. The cost of the attempts of certain forces to prevent reconciliation in Afghanistan is dreadful. I am certain though, that these forces will not manage to break the will of the Afghan people to embrace peace.

In this difficult hour, Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with Afghanistan. We will continue to support you in your endeavours to achieve peace and security in your country.

With my deepest sympathy

Angela Merkel

Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany