“We received the news with deep sorrow that the suicide attack perpetrated today (21 January) in a market place in Baghdad resulted in loss of many lives and left several others wounded,” the statement said.

“We condemn this heinous terror attack in strongest terms, and on this occasion, we reiterate once again that we remain standing by our friendly neighbor Iraq in its combat against terrorism.”

“We wish Allah's mercy upon those who lost their lives in this heinous attack, a speedy recovery to the wounded and extend our condolences to the brotherly people and Government of Iraq,” the statement concluded.