GENEVA, March 15 (Xinhua) -- The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, on Friday, offered his "sincerest condolences" after the killing of at least 49 people in two shootings in the New Zealand city of Christchurch.
"It is with great sadness that I have heard the news of the horrific attacks against two mosques which took place today in Christchurch, New Zealand, in which 49 people are believed to have been killed," said Grandi in a statement.
Grandi offered his "sincerest condolences" to the families and friends of the victims and the people of New Zealand, saying he wished to share his solidarity with them in their grief and sorrow.
He said, "This is deeply shocking. At a time of growing hostility towards diversity, the humanity (that) the authorities and people of New Zealand have shown in their response is truly laudable."
Grandi said the UNHCR stands by New Zealand, which he said has generously given refuge to people fleeing conflict and persecution, "and whose citizens warmly welcomed them into their towns and cities".
Earlier on Friday, gunmen opened fire at two separate mosques in Christchurch, killing 49 people and wounding 48 others.
