RIO DE JANEIRO, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The Brazilian government released an official statement on Friday condemning the terrorist attacks on two New Zealand mosques that had killed at least 49 people earlier in the day.
"The Brazilian government strongly condemns the terrorist attacks targeting the Muslim community in Christchurch, New Zealand, which cost the lives of about 49 people and left dozens injured," said the statement.
"In expressing condolences to the families of the victims and vows of rapid and full recovery to the wounded, Brazil reaffirms its firm rejection of any and all acts of terrorism, regardless of their motivation, and expresses its solidarity with the people and government of New Zealand," the government said.
Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro also made a personal statement through his Twitter account.
"Our deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand and to the families and friends of the victims of the terrible massacre in the Christchurch mosques," the president said. "Brazil vehemently condemns this cruelty, and we are in solidary with the New Zealanders in this difficult time."
Gunmen staged the terrorist attacks on two mosques packed with worshippers attending Friday prayers in the South Island city, killing 49 people and injuring many others.