France will heal says French ambassador to SA
Overcoming the November 13 terror attacks in Paris through solidarity was the message delivered by the French ambassador to South Africa during a media briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday.
“France is wounded but France will heal,” said the Ambassador of France to South Africa, Elisabeth Barbier.
Barbier spoke of France’s resilience and thanked the world for messages of support since the terrorist attacks in Paris which claimed over 120 lives on Friday.
“The mobilisation and the support for France has been impressive,” she said.
“Solidarity is the best weapon we have against terrorism. As long as we are united, we are invincible.”
Barbier said that although messages of support were directed at France, she believed it was also meant for all victims of terrorism.
She added that France was not alone in its fight, as terrorism took place across the world, “especially in Africa”. Barbier made special mention of Kenya and the January attack on its Garissa University in which 147 people, mainly students, were killed.
Echoing French President Francois Hollande, Barbier said that the response to terrorists would be “fearless”. She added, however, that this was not a conflict of civilisations.
“The jihadists do not represent any civilisation,” she said.
Barbier said that France would defeat jihadists as part of the Global War on Terror. She added that France had, in its history, defeated enemies far more powerful than jihadists.
Despite the attacks, Barbier said that France’s position remained of allowing migrants into the country. Tourists, including South Africans, were also welcome to visit when they wanted to.
“The borders of France are open,” said Barbier.
“France welcomes all of its visitors.” - ANA