New Delhi, March 19 (IANS) The terror attack in Tunisia that left 19 people dead is a move to “derail” the democratic process in the north African country, said its envoy here Thursday as he expressed gratitude for the “prompt” condemnation of the incident by India.
Tarek Azouz, Tunisian envoy to India, said his country’s security forces were trying to find those behind the attack on the Bardo Museum, a must-see on the tourism itinerary of the country.
A group of militants disguised as soldiers entered the museum and opened fire, killing 17 European tourists, including from Italy, Germany, Poland and Spain. Two Tunisians were also killed in the attack, while 22 people were injured, according to reports.
The north African country, which was where the Arab Spring movement began in December 2010, successfully held its first parliamentary and presidential elections last year and was seen as a beacon of hope for democracy in the region.
“We must all be unified to fight this phenomenon (terrorism), through a combination of ways, economically, socially, security-wise and in international forum. We rely on friendly ties of India,” Azouz told IANS in an interview.
Excerpts :
Q: Who could be behind the attack? Do you think the Islamic State is involved?
A: The security forces are trying to find out who are behind the attack. They are trying to find out the nationalities (of those behind the attack). They have long been trying to derail the democratic process in Tunisia, which is the only country which has seen a successful transition to democracy.
We must all be unified to fight this phenomenon (terrorism), through a combination of ways, economically, socially, security-wise and in international forum. We rely on friendly ties of India.
Q: Did you receive any expressions of support from India?
A: The prime minister (Narendra Modi) was prompt in tweeting his condemnation and in show of support.
International solidarity is very important. India is a peace loving country and friendly country.
Q: How is Tunisia dealing with it?
A: The terrorists were targeting the tourists. Tourism is one of the mainstays of Tunisia. Seven million tourists visit Tunisia annually and it contributes to seven percent of the GDP. The Bardo Museum holds the largest collection of Roman relics in the world, and is a must-visit place on the itinerary of every tourist.
The attack is also taking place less than two months after the one in France (on French satirical newspaper, Charlie Hebdo, on January 7).
Q: Was any Indian among the victims?
A: To my knowledge, there was no Indian among the victims.
No country is safe (from terrorism). International solidarity is important. India is a peace loving country.
On Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah held an election rally in favor of BJP candidate Shivesh
Sunil Grover: Heart surgery done by Sunil Grover, health is already improving
'Gutthi' and 'Dr. Mashoor Gulati is coming out from Mumbai regarding the health of famous actor a
The Government of India has now put an end to the rumor going on in the media regarding the Coron
How was PM Modi's speech at the UN? questions about china
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his speech at the United Nations General Assembly o
The weather pattern has started changing in many states of North India. After packing the quilts,
The United Arab Emirates i.e. UAE government has taken a big decision to promote trade in the cou
New alliance of India, Israel, UAE and US
The meeting of the foreign ministers of India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the US is se
Russia's attacks on Ukraine have been continuing for 160 days. During this, countries around the
The negligence of the police administration is coming to the fore in the death due to spurious li
Exclusive: Amidst the ongoing dispute with China on the LAC, the helicopters of the Indian Army h
