Fri, 17 Jul 2009 14:48:45 UTC
WASHINGTON, July 17 (Reuters) - President Barack Obama strongly condemned bombings at two luxury hotels in Indonesia on Friday and said the United States stands ready to assist the Jakarta government.
In a written statement, Obama extended his deepest condolences to the victims and their loved ones. The bombings killed at least eight people and wounded dozens.
"The American people stand by the Indonesian people in this difficult time, and the U.S. government stands ready to help the Indonesian government respond to and recover from these outrageous attacks as a friend and partner," he said.
Obama said Indonesia has been steadfast in combating violent extremists within its borders, but that "these attacks make it clear that extremists remain committed to murdering innocent men, women and children of any faith in all countries."
"We will continue to partner with Indonesia to eliminate the threat from these violent extremists, and we will be unwavering in supporting a future of security and opportunity for the Indonesian people," he said.
