We understand the needs of the marketplace and are driven by our expertise in the security arena. Today's world is replete with geopolitical, cultural and ideological tensions which creates risks that need to be mitigated.
A huge bomb blast has struck the Marriott Hotel in the Pakistan capital, Islamabad, leaving at least 40 people dead.
The explosion created a six meter deep crater, and left the entire front area of the hotel destroyed. An extensive section of the 315-room hotel remained alight hours after the blast. Police are warning that the hotel could collapse following the suspected suicide bombing. The blast is thought to have been caused by more than a tonne of explosives.
The attack was condemned by President Asif Ali Zardari who vowed to "continue to fight terrorism and extremism". The explosion came only hours after the newly elected President Zardari had delivered his first speech to MPs, declaring that Pakistan's territory should not be violated by terrorists or foreign powers fighting them.
According to reports the attack is undoubtedly the most serious the Pakistani capital has suffered to date and will ignite fears about the country's stability in the face of an increasing Islamist insurgency.
Four British citizens are among at least 100 people who have been injured in the attack, along with Saudi, German, Moroccan, Afghan and US nationals.
The Marriott is the most prestigious hotel in Islamabad, and is commonly used by foreigners and the Pakistani elite. The hotel is situated close to government buildings and diplomatic missions, and vehicles and guests are subject to tight security checks.
Last year a suicide bomber and one other person were killed during an attack at the hotel.
subscribe
news archive