Statement by Didier Reynders, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Belgium, Chairman of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe

"I am deeply shocked by the horrendous attack committed this morning in Paris against “Charlie Hebdo” magazine. On behalf of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, I extend my condolences to all the victims’ families and express my solidarity and my full support towards the French authorities and people.

With the utmost firmness, I condemn this barbaric act. We must mobilise in defence of our values and our freedoms, including freedom of expression.  We must also strive to ensure that the spirit of tolerance holding our societies together prevails over the hatred and division which the terrorists seek to provoke. The Council of Europe is determined to pursue its action to that end".