US condemns Karachi terrorist attack

WASHINGTON: The US today condemned the terrorist attack in Pakistan which killed 45 members of the minority Shia Ismaili community and said it was ready to provide assistance in investigating the "heinous" assault.

"I strongly condemn the heinous May 13 attack on a bus in Karachi, which resulted in the deaths of dozens of members of the Ismaili community," Secretary of State John Kerry said in a statement.

"The American people stand in solidarity with the people of Pakistan, and with the global Ismaili community on this tragic day. Make no mistake: There is more strength by far in the respect and solidarity that we feel towards one another than there could ever be in any terrorist attack," he said.

Kerry extended his personal condolences to the families of the victims, and to his dear, esteemed friend Aga Khan, who has led the Ismaili community in investing in so many important development and education projects not only in Pakistan, but around the world.

"We will support efforts to bring all those responsible to justice and stand ready to provide assistance to the investigation of this tragic attack," Kerry said.