Minister of Foreign Affairs Verhagen was shocked by the attacks that happened in Kabul this morning. "That the UN has now become a target, is a new low point. It is an example of the incredible non-sparing cynicism with which the enemy operates."

The Taliban carry out attacks on a frequent basis in Afghanistan, but usually their targets are military or police ones. Innocent Afghani civilians are also often casualties of these attacks. It is the first time that a UN building is directly attacked in Kabul, possibly it is linked with the soon to be held second round presidential elections. "This attack shall not prevent the Afghani population from carrying out their democratic right to vote at the second round of the presidential elections on the 7th of November. The international community will support them in this endeavour, Verhagen concluded."



Comments/Questions? Email netherlands@un.int