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Australia slams Paris attack

Xinhua, January 8, 2015 Adjust font size:

Australia condemned Wednesday's Charlie Hedbo attack in Paris, with Prime Minister Tony Abbott labeling the shootings as a "barbaric act" on Thursday.

Gunmen attacked the offices of the French satirical magazine on Wednesday, killing 12 people included its editor and several celebrated cartoonists.

As many as 11 people remain injured, four seriously, as police continue the search for three gunmen.

It was the deadliest French terror attack in more than 50 years and Australian leaders were quick to offer their deepest sympathies.

"The government condemns the atrocity in Paris overnight," Abbott said in a statement on Thursday morning.

"The thoughts of all Australians are with the families of those who have lost their lives in this barbaric act.

"The government will continue to do all it can to protect our community from terrorism."

Opposition leader Bill Shorten joined Abbott in sending his prayers to the French capital.

"Our hearts go out to families and colleagues of those who lost their lives and those who are injured," Shorten said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Australian Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) said it "condemns the attacks" and "offers our condolences to the lives lost for doing their job". Endi