UAE solidarity with Ethiopia

The UAE has condemned the killing of Ethiopian Christians in Libya by ISIL militants, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said.

ABU DHABI // The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has criticised the “heinous crime” by ISIL for its murder of Ethiopian citizens, and has offered its solidarity with the African nation.

The ministry reiterated the UAE’s position of “rejecting terrorism in all its forms and under any name or pretext”.

“Such a barbaric crime would strengthen our resolve to stand as one in the face of this terrorist group, which propagates terror under the guise of religion,” a statement said.

“Confronting such cowardly acts and twisted thinking requires that the international community rallies together its efforts in all areas.”

A video showed ISIL militants killing more than 20 Ethiopian Christians who had been planning to go to Europe by boat from Libya but were captured, news agencies reported.

Ethiopia began three days of national mourning on Tuesday.

The President, Sheikh Khalifa, sent the UAE’s condolences to Dr Mulatu Teshome, president of Ethiopia. He said ISIL’s actions contravened all laws, religious and moral values.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, also sent messages.