COPENHAGEN, 24 January 2011 – Expressing his deep sorrow at the loss of life following a blast at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport, OSCE PA President Petros Efthymiou strongly condemned the apparent terrorist attack.

“Nothing can justify the senseless killing that took place in Moscow today. The perpetrators of this terrorist attack are criminals and must be dealt with in precisely this manner. A thorough and transparent investigation is needed,” said Petros Efthymiou.

“By bombing the airport, terrorists have struck at the heart of the people. Today’s attack is another reminder that much work remains to be done on both international and domestic levels. All of us, in all countries, must continue to work together to prevent such criminal terrorism – stopping terrorist financing, ensuring effective policing and rule of law, and effective border controls require continued efforts and co-operation. The prevention of and fight against terrorism must be built upon a concept of common and comprehensive security and an enduring approach.”

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly has regularly expressed its concern and condemned terrorism, including declaring it a crime against humanity in the Helsinki and Washington, DC Declarations.