Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has expressed shock over the Westgate mall terror attack in Nairobi. In a message to President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya Dr. Manmohan Singh said the incident is a reminder of the challenge posed by terrorism and called for a sustained response from the global community and assured Kenya that India stands ready to assist the country in this hour of grief.

The text of the Prime Minister’s message is as follows:

"I was deeply shocked and saddened by the brutal terror attack yesterday on the Westgate Mall in Nairobi. This incident is a stark reminder that the persisting menace of terrorism remains a formidable challenge that calls for a concerted and sustained response from the global community. India condemns in the strongest terms this heinous and senseless assault, which has snuffed out so many innocent lives, including nationals of both our countries.

We stand in solidarity with you and the Government and the people of Kenya in this hour of grief. Please convey our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and our good wishes to the injured for a full and speedy recovery. I am confident that Your Excellency and the people of Kenya will have the strength and the resilience to deal with this tragedy and respond firmly to the forces of terror. We stand ready to assist you in your efforts."