Statements made by the Ministry of Foreign and European Spokesperson (Paris, January 14, 2010)

Visit by Alain Joyandet to Haiti
Afghanistan

Visit by Alain Joyandet to Haiti

Following the violent earthquake which hit Port-au-Prince, Alain Joyandet is immediately going to Haiti. At Nicolas Sarkozy and Bernard Kouchner’s request, the Minister of State for Cooperation and Francophony is in this way expressing France’s solidarity with the stricken people.

Alain Joyandet will ensure the coordination of French aid on the ground, liaising with European and international initiatives.

Alain Joyandet will meet members of the deeply affected French community, some of whom have gathered on the site of the French Embassy. He will take them a message of comfort and ensure the utmost is done to locate and help our compatriots.

Afghanistan

France utterly condemns the two attacks which took place today on a market in the Deh Rawood district, in Oruzgan Province in Afghanistan, and in Helmand Province, which according the latest reports, have killed 20 people, including a police officer, and injured at least 13.

We extend our condolences to the bereaved and wish the injured a prompt recovery.

France assures the Afghan authorities and people of its determination to remain engaged alongside them to work towards achieving the long-term stabilization of Afghanistan.