Norway condemns terrorist attack on school in Pakistan

More than 100 people are reported to have been killed in the attack – most of them schoolchildren. A number of teachers and military personnel have also lost their lives. There were more than 500 people in the school when it was attacked. The Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility.

‘I am deeply worried about the escalating violence in Pakistan. It is a tragedy that so many people have been killed in a meaningless assault just a few days after we celebrated a peace prize in support of children and their right to an education. Those responsible for today’s attack must be brought to justice,’ said Foreign Minister Brende.

‘Protection of schools is a priority in Norway’s global education efforts. Norway has taken a leading role in developing international guidelines for the protection of schools and universities in situations of armed conflict. This attack shows that such guidelines are absolutely essential,’ Mr Brende said.