With regard to the horrific shooting at the offices of French publication Charlie Hebdo in Paris, which claimed 12 lives and was reportedly carried out as a terr

or attack on human life and freedom of the press, the government of Costa Rica issued a firm statement of condemnation. Speaking from China on official business, President Luis Guillermo Solis stated:

 

“I condemn, in the most absolute manner, this attack. There is no justification whatsoever for carrying out such barbaric acts. [These attacks] perpetrated against journalists reflect a hatred against those who work diligently to keep us informed. The world must look in horror, and must immediately repudiate these actions, which only manage to inflict deep pain.”

 

In a communiqué by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government of Costa Rica sent a message of condolence and solidarity to the good people of France, a nation which has excellent relations with Costa Rica. As it has done in the past, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is calling upon the international community to work together to eradicate all forms of violence with the goal of achieving peace and understanding around the world.

 

In related news, the Wall Street Journal reports that French tactical police officers have been involved in shootouts while in pursuit of the suspects:

 

At least one hostage was seized Friday by gunmen believed to be behind the attack on French weekly Charlie Hebdo after shots were fired northeast of Paris, police officers said.

 

“An operation is currently under way near Dammartin-en-Goële that is mobilizing all the forces in the area,” said French interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve, speaking in a short televised address.