[Provisional translation]

A large number of lives have been lost to a despicable act of terrorism.  I offer my heartfelt prayers for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives to this act of terrorism and also extend my condolences.  We are now making every possible effort to confirm the safety of seven Japanese nationals, but the situation is extremely difficult.  This is a matter of the greatest regret, as all of them have worked hard for the development of Bangladesh.  Many innocent people have lost their lives to this cruel and atrocious act of terrorism.  I am intensely outraged.  This act is a challenge to the universal values shared by the international community including Japan, and we raise a strong protest.
From the earliest stages of this incident, Japan has worked in close cooperation with Bangladesh, placing the utmost priority on people’s lives.  One Japanese national was injured but he was rescued thanks to the operations conducted by the Government of Bangladesh.  I wish to extend my thanks to all those related to those operations.  I spoke with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina just now in telephone talks.  On behalf of Japan, I wish to express my thanks to Prime Minister Hasina and to the Government of Bangladesh, both of whom have done their very best right up to the end.  We intend to continue to make every possible effort to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens both at home and abroad.