EP President condemns Paris terrorist attacks

The European Parliament (EP) strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Paris that killed more than 120 people and wounded many others on Friday night, EP President Martin Schulz said on Saturday morning.

"On behalf of the European Parliament, I condemn in the clearest and strongest terms the heinous terrorist attacks which killed and wounded so many people in Paris yesterday," Schulz said in a statement.

He also expressed his condolences to President Francois Hollande. The EP President said that "at this terrible moment our thoughts and sympathy are with the families and friends of the victims, together with the French authorities and with all French citizens."

Noting that Paris was brutally attacked for the second time in less than a year, the president said the terrorists wanted to target the core of western civilization, its values and its people.

"They wanted to spread terror, fear and divisions," he added.

Schulz commended Parisians who have responded with courage and moving solidarity, adding that Europe's commitment to defend freedom, equality, democracy and the rule of law is as strong as ever.

"Europe stands united in the fight against terrorism, in our resolve to track down the networks and all those who contributed to organize these evil acts and bring them to justice," Schulz pledged.

Several shootings and bombings took place across Paris Friday night with one of which becoming hostage-taking at the Bataclan concert hall where hundreds of people were attending a rock concert.

During anti-terrorist forces assault at the hall, more than 100 people died and four suspected attackers were killed, according to local media. Endit