Foreign Secretary statement on attack on the compound housing German and British Embassies in Khartoum
Foreign Secretary William Hague has confirmed that all UK and Sudanese staff at the British Embassy in Khartoum are safe and that no injuries were sustained.
“Earlier this afternoon the compound housing the German and British Embassies in Khartoum was attacked by a group of demonstrators. Sudanese police attended the scene, but demonstrators were able to break down a perimeter wall and cause minor damage to the compound. They did not attempt to gain access to the British Embassy building.
“As it is the Sudanese weekend, very few staff were present in the Embassy. I am glad to say that all UK and Sudanese staff present during the attack are safe and that no injuries were sustained. All other UK staff in Khartoum are also accounted for.
“The neighbouring German Embassy, which appeared to be the focus of the attack, was set on fire and severely damaged. We remained in close contact with the Germans throughout the incident and were able to offer shelter to German diplomats. I am pleased to say that they are also safe and my colleague the German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle has made a statement following this attack. I am very grateful for the close coordination with our German colleagues throughout this incident.
“We have spoken to the Sudanese Ambassador in London and raised our serious concerns that this attack was able to take place. It is the responsibility of the Sudanese authorities to ensure that effective protection is provided to diplomatic premises at all times. I condemn in the strongest possible terms today’s attack and call on the Sudanese authorities to ensure that those involved are brought to justice.
“This event is a reminder of the dangers that our diplomats around the world sometimes have to face. Our travel advice has been updated to reflect today’s events and we advise British nationals to avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people, and keep themselves informed of developments, including by regularly checking the FCO website.”