BEIJING — Premier Li Keqiang on Jan 9 sent a message of condolences to his French counterpart, Manuel Valls, over the terrorist attack at the headquarters of the Paris-based Charlie Hebdo satirical weekly magazine.

In the message, Li, on behalf of the Chinese government, expressed profound condolences to the victims of the attack and extended sincere sympathies to the families of those killed.

The Chinese government supports the efforts made by the French side in safeguarding national security, Li said, adding that China stands ready to enhance cooperation with France and the international community to jointly tackle challenges and safeguard world peace and security.

Twelve people were killed and 11 others injured when masked gunmen stormed the offices of Charlie Hebdo in Paris on Jan 7. The attack has drawn condemnation from across the world.