The EU condemns the killing of French hostages in Niger

Following the kidnapping and murder of two young French people in Niger, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the EU, expressed the EUs firm condemnation of this heinous act and expressed "condolences and deepest sympathy to the families of victims as well as those of national authorities and relatives of the Nigerian security agents who also died in this tragic event."

Ashton confirmed the EUs firm commitment to continue its efforts to help Niger and other countries in the region to fight against extremism and violence. To this end the EU is now working on a comprehensive strategy to address issues of security and development and eliminate the threat of terrorism which is a serious impediment to stability, development efforts and growth of the economy of Sahelian countries. "