Australia stands in solidarity with France’s liberté, égalité, fraternité

In a statement issued today by Opposition leader Bill Shorten and his deputy and shadow foreign affairs minister Tanya Plibersek following the Bastille Day terrorist attack in the south of France, Labor has reaffirmed that Australians stand in solidarity with their great friends, the French people.

“Australians are shocked by reports of the horrific attack in Nice, France.

Our hearts go out to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives and our thoughts are with the injured.

In this new moment of sorrow, we stand in solidarity with our great friends, the French people, against this terrible violence. A crime aimed at the innocent people of France, perpetrated on their national day.

Follow the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Bastille Day has always been an occasion to celebrate the powerful belief the French people have in democracy; the struggle and sacrifice with which they achieved it, and the enduring power of the wordsLiberté, égalité, fraternité.

These values, infinitely stronger and richer than the hate-filled ideology of those who seek to strike against the French Republic, have stood the test of time.

They will prevail.

We urge Australians to follow the advice of our Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Australians who need help, or are concerned about the safety of their loved ones, can call the Australian government’s 24 hour emergency consular helpline on 1300 555 135 (within Australia), +61 2 6261 3305 (outside Australia), and +61 421 269 080 (by SMS).”

This article originally appeared in the Labor Herald.