Pakistan condemns blasts in Afghanistan’s Bamiyan city

Pakistan has strongly condemned blasts in Bamiyan city, which resulted in the loss of precious human lives and injuries to several others.

In a statement today (Wednesday), Foreign Office Spokesperson Zahid Hafeez Chaudhry said Pakistan stands in solidarity with Afghan nation in this hour of grief and reiterates its commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Let it be known that roadside bombs exploded in central Afghanistan killing at least 13 civilians and a traffic policeman, officials said, even as government negotiators and the Taliban meet to try to end decades of war.

A spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, Tariq Arian said 45 people were also wounded in a late afternoon blast in Bamiyan city in Bamiyan province. Several shops and vehicles were destroyed or damaged.

Mohammad Reza Yusufi, spokesman for the provincial police chief in Bamiyan, said there were two bombs that exploded in quick succession.

Bamiyan is perhaps best known for the giant Buddha statues that once were carved into walls outside the city.

With its snowy backdrop and frequent blue skies, Bamiyan is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs keen to explore a network of ancient caves housing temples, monasteries and Buddhist paintings.