US,UK,Japan condemn Samjhauta blasts,pledge support against terror

New Delhi, Feb 19 (UNI) The US, UK and Japan today strongly condemned the bomb explosions on the Samjhauta Express which killed at least 66 people last night, and pledged support to India to punish the perpetrators of the heinous terrorist act.

The US while expressing shock at the tragedy, described it a ''deliberate act of terrorism,'' and expressed the resolve to defeat the scourge.

A statement issued by the US embassy here said the US government was ''shocked and deeply saddened'' by the tragic loss of life caused by a ''deliberate act of terrorism'' early this morning on the Samjhauta Express liking Delhi and Lahore.

''We extend our sincere condolences to the victims of the criminal act and their families,'' the statement said.

Such acts could only strengthen the resolve of all well-intentioned people to defeat terror and achieve peace, the statement added.

British Foreign Office Minister Kim Howells expressed shock at the ''devastating loss of life'' on the Samjhauta Express.

While utterly condemning this ''shameful act,'' the Minister offered to India and Pakistan any assistance to bring to justice the perpetrators of this brutal attack, a statement issued by the British High Commission here said.

Japan also expressed ''deep shock'' and strongly condemned the bombings as an ''inexcusable act, targeted at innocent people.'' Japan would continue to strengthen cooperation with both India and Pakistan to tackle international terrorism, a statement issued by the Japanese embassy in India said.

UNI