People around the world are expressing shock and revulsion at the deadly terrorist attacks in Mumbai.  With world reaction, Tom Rivers in London has this report for VOA.

The Taj Hotel, Mumbai's landmark hotel, catches fire after an attack in Mumbai, early Thursday morning, 27 Nov. 2008

International condemnation of the terror attacks has been pouring in.

In Australia, the country's acting foreign minister described that attacks as indiscriminate and cowardly.

In Tokyo, the government expressed its anger at the death of a Japanese citizen and stressed the view that there can never by any justification for any act of terrorism.

In the U.S., President Bush offered his condolences to the Indian people.

President-elect Obama strongly condemned that attacks and he said, we stand with the people of India.

And in Pakistan, a government statement strongly condemned the violence and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life.

In Britain, Prime Minister Gordon Brown spoke for many. 

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown

"I think I speak for the whole world - shocked and outrage at the tragic destruction of innocent lives," he said.  "And I have already sent my sympathy and support to Prime Minister Singh of India and to say that we will do everything we can to help the Indian government."

As is the case with other countries, Mr. Brown says giving assistance to its nationals caught up in the tragedy is objective number one.

"Our first duty is towards British citizens who are caught up in this terror in Mumbai," he said.  "The High Commissioner has come from Delhi to visit all those who are injured in hospitals. He is visiting them now. It is too early to give any numbers for the numbers of people who are injured. Our second responsibility is obviously to root out terrorism, to help the Indian government with their action and that is why at the same time as giving support to the Indian prime minister, we are sending police and emergency teams that are well versed in dealing with terrorism."

David Cameron, the leader of Britain's main opposition party says Britain is united with the people of India.

"These are absolutely horrific attacks and the pictures on our television screens are dreadful," Cameron said.  "And our sympathy must be with victims, yes of course, but also our support for the Indian government at this time. And we must stand together with them, absolutely steadfast, saying these terrorists will never win."

Cameron says this attack will only serve to strengthen British-Indian ties.

England's national cricket team is currently touring India. Security arrangements are currently being reviewed that could impact upon further matches that are scheduled for next month.