EU expresses condolences over bomb attack in Bangkok

The European Union (EU) here on Monday expressed condolences over the bomb attack in Thailand 's capital of Bangkok, which killed at least 18 people.

"The EU expresses its sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to all those wounded. Our thoughts are with the people of Thailand at this time of shock and grief," said a statement by the spokesperson of the European External Action Service.

A bomb has exploded close to a shrine in the center of Bangkok, killing at least 18 people, including three Chinese nationals and injuring 117 others, the Chinese embassy in Thailand quoted the Health Ministry as saying.

The blast happened at about 7 p.m. local time (1200 GMT) Monday near Erawan Shrine at Ratchaprasong intersection in Bangkok, a popular destination for domestic and foreign tourists.