S&D MEP Afzal Khan, vice-president of the subcommittee on security and defence, stated:
"We, as a group, strongly condemn this attack.
"We express our deepest condolences to the families and friends of all those who have tragically lost their lives in the attack in Kunduz. More than 22 civilians were killed in the attack: 12 medical staff and 10 patients, three of them children and 37 more were injured.
"The group pays tribute to the "Doctors Without Borders" staff, who bravely and selflessly worked as fighting raged in Kunduz over the past week:
• Applaud all other heroic doctors and other medical staff around the world who risk their lives every day trying to save others. This attack has implications not only in Afghanistan, but for medical NGOs across the world.
• Under the rules of international humanitarian law, a hospital is a hospital and the people inside are patients and medical staff - to target a medical facility in this way is a violation of that, whatever the circumstances.
• It is critical that there is a prompt, full, independent investigation to ensure maximum transparency and accountability, and those responsible must be brought to justice.
• Violation of international laws cannot serve as an excuse to combat against terrorism. Respect for human rights and the rule of law must prevail.
• We also condemn the Taliban for the violence they are carrying out.
• The Taliban successes in and around Kunduz are the consequence of corrupt and abusive governance.
• The Afghan government needs to be united and needs to focus on legitimate grievances and community consensus-building.
• The EU and the international community should assist in this, through diplomacy and negotiations. After decades of violence, Afghans deserve peace.
• Regional cooperation with the objective of promoting long-term peace, stability and security in the wider region is essential.
• The cooperation with Pakistan is especially important. We welcome their assistance in the reconciliation process and encourage continuing on the path of improved relations and cooperation between Kabul and Islamabad."
