The United States on Tuesday condemned as "particularly outrageous" an attack by Al Qaeda-inspired extremists in Somalia that killed 30 people, including six members of the country's legislature and four government officials.
"We are saddened today by the loss of life that tragically occurred as the result of a bombing by the Shebab in Mogadishu," said John Brennan, the US administration's top anti-terrorism adviser.
"This is a particularly outrageous act during the Islamic month of Ramadan. And the Shebab's vision for Africa stands in sharp contrast to the vision of the overwhelming majority of Africans," he said.
Brennan said the United States would work to ensure "the future that Africa... that these Africans desire and that the continent itself so richly deserves."
Brennan's comments came after two attackers went on a shooting rampage at a Mogadishu hotel before committing suicide.
"The United States will continue to partner with those who oppose terrorism, extremism and violence in all forms, and will continue to work very closely with those in Africa -- particularly in the Horn of Africa, in Somalia -- who are interested in ensuring that Africa can build and realize its full potential and prosperity for all Africans," the US anti-terrorism czar said.
Copyright 2010 AFP American Edition
