UNESCO Director-General deplores suicide attack near Djingareyber Mosque in Timbuktu

The Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, deplored the suicide attack that took place on 28 September, near the Djingareyber Mosque in Timbuktu, Mali, inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

"I wish to express my solidarity with the people of Mali, the families and especially the community of Timbuktu, for the suicide bombing that brings back such terror and violence by injuring the Malian people at its heart," said Ms Bokova.

The attack killed two citizens and injured several military forces, causing substantial damage to the Djingareyber Mosque and many houses nearby.

“UNESCO is more determined than ever to pursue its efforts to rehabilitate the cultural heritage of Mali and the Protection of Ancient Manuscripts," said the Director-General.

Irina Bokova joined Mr. Bert Koenders, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Mali and head of MINUSMA (integrated multidimensional United Nations Mission for Stabilization in Mali) in expressing her sincere condolences to the grieving families and injured military in the attack.