World Tourism Organization condemns bomb attack in Thailand

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) strongly condemned Monday's bomb attack in the Thai capital of Bangkok that left at least 20 people dead and more than 100 others injured.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the UNWTO said it felt "deeply saddened and shocked by the attack."

"On behalf of the global tourism community, UNWTO offers its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and reiterates its full support to the people and the Government of Thailand," the statement said.

UNWTO's Secretary-General Taleb Rifai said in the statement that the attack was "direct attacks on the livelihood of the Thai people and their economy which is strongly linked with tourism."

Rifai said Thailand has a long tradition of being a hospitable and welcoming country and "we fully believe it will continue to be so."