UNWTO Strongly Condemns Mass Shooting Attack in Orlando

On the behalf of the international tourism community, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) on Monday expressed its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims of Sunday’s mass shooting in Orlando, to the American people and the LGBT community worldwide.

A gunman, identified as Omar Mateen, went on a shooting rampage early Sunday at a gay nightclub in Orlando that left 50 people dead and 53 wounded.

“On the behalf of the international tourism community, UNWTO conveys its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and expresses its full solidarity with the people and the Government of United States of America”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, in an announcement.

According to reports, the gunman was an American-born man who had pledged allegiance to ISIS. The group later claimed responsibility for the mass shooting attack.

“This hideous crime reminds us once again we are facing a global threat and that we need to more than ever stay together, strengthen our cooperation and continue to fight prejudice”, Mr Rifai added.

Authorities said the attack was the deadliest mass shooting in the United States and the nation’s worst terror attack since 9/11.