Pakistan condemns Dhaka terrorist attack

Pakistan on Saturday condemned the "senseless terrorist attack" in the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka that has led to the loss of lives and injuries to many innocent people.

Gunmen have shot dead two police officials, police said, in the first attack on a foreign restaurant in Bangladesh claimed by the Islamic State (IS) jihadists.

The gunmen stormed the restaurant in Bangladesh capital Dhaka's diplomatic enclave Gulshan on Friday night.

"The government and the people of Pakistan extend their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the brotherly people and government of Bangladesh over the loss of innocent lives and wish the injured early recovery," the Foreign Ministry said.

"Pakistan stands in solidarity with the brotherly people of Bangladesh and is confident that the Government of Bangladesh will effectively counter this cowardly attack," the Foreign Ministry spokesman said in a statement.

The spokesman also said the Pakistani High Commission in Dhaka has informed the Foreign Ministry that all embassy staff is safe.

(APD)