I have just learned, to my dismay, of the attack in Jerusalem this morning in which a truck was rammed into a crowd.

I utterly condemn this despicable attack.

My thoughts are with the victims' families, to whom I extend my condolences and to the injured, whom I wish a speedy recovery.

At this painful time, France stands, as always, in solidarity with Israel. It stands alongside it in the fight against terrorism and in order to ensure its security.

Egypt – Attack against police officers in the Sinai (January 9, 2017)

France utterly condemns the attack which killed 8 police officers in northern Sinai on January 8.

We extend our condolences to the victims' families and wish the injured a speedy recovery.

France reaffirms its wholehearted solidarity with Egypt in the fight against terrorism.

Syria – Attack in Azaz (January 7, 2017)

France condemns the attack carried out on January 7 in Azaz in northern Syria, which killed at least 48 people.

We extend our condolences to the victims' families.

France is fully committed to the fight against terrorism in Syria. It reaffirms that the only way to restore peace and stability to the country is through a political solution resulting from negotiations on a transition based on UNSCR 2254.

Cyprus – Negotiation process (Geneva - January 9, 2017)

While the inter-Cypriot negotiations on the reunification of the island resume today in Geneva, France would like to reaffirm its full support for the leaders of both communities and reiterates its confidence in Espen Barth Eide, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General.

It urges all actors to work toward ensuring the success of the process.

An agreement on Cyprus would be excellent news for the island's stability and prosperity first of all, as well as for the entire region and the EU.

Kosovo – Arrest of Ramush Haradinaj (January 4, 2017)

Ramush Haradinaj was arrested on January 4, 2017, at Basel-Mulhouse Airport, on the basis of a request for provisional arrest issued by Interpol, the enforcement of which is automatic, in accordance with France’s international commitments.

The case has been referred to the French judicial authorities which are examining the situation with the utmost diligence in a fully independent manner. The proceedings now fall under the remit of the judicial authorities.

Ramush Haradinaj is entitled to consular protection and was able to meet with Kosovo's consul.

The minister of foreign affairs and international development is in contact with the Kosovo authorities and is following this case very closely. Jean-Marc Ayrault has discussed this issue with his Kosovo counterpart, Enver Hoxaj.

France, which was one of the very first countries to recognize Kosovo in 2008, maintains close and friendly relations with this country. The action being taken against Ramush Haradinaj relates to the judicial proceedings initiated by Interpol's request. It does not have any political implications and does not change France's consistent policy or its support for reconciliation in the region and the implementation of the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. France attaches the utmost importance to the continuation of both.

International Conference on Victim Assistance (Paris - January 9, 2017)

The International Conference on Victim Assistance is taking place today in Paris under the patronage of UNESCO.

It will bring together foreign and French experts to share experiences and best practices. The goal of the conference is to present a European and international initiative in support of an interdisciplinary victim assistance policy involving improved coordination between states.

With the creation of the Interministerial Victim Support Unit (CIAV), managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development's crisis and support center, and the appointment of a minister of state for victim assistance, France has strengthened its national system over the last few months in order to provide long-term support for victims.

EU – 30^th anniversary of Erasmus+ program

Minister of State for European Affairs Harlem Désir is attending the national inauguration of celebrations marking the 30^th anniversary of Erasmus+, a European program promoting education, training, youth and athletics.

Other members of the government will also be attending this event at the Odéon-Théâtre de l'Europe: Education and Research Minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem; Minister of Labor, Employment, Vocational Training and Social Dialogue Myriam El Khomri; and Minister of Urban Affairs, Youth, and Sport Patrick Kanner.

Over the past 30 years, nearly 5 million people, including more than a million in France, have taken part in this emblematic program that brings the people of Europe closer together. It is one of Europe's most beautiful success stories. France would like to move toward an Erasmus for all, allowing more young people engaged in job training and apprenticeship programs to take advantage of mobility in Europe.

For more information, visit www.generation-erasmus.fr or #confesrasmus.