KABUL: Condemning the Thursday suicide attack in Panjwai district of Kandahar, President Hamid Kazai has said those involved in such misdeeds were enemies of the country and peace.

Speaking at a news conference here on Friday, Karzai expressed sympathy with families of the victims, including four Canadian soldiers. He prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

At least 21 people were killed and 13 others, mostly children, suffered injuries in a car bomb explosion in a market of the Panjwai district Thursday afternoon.

Karzai said the victims were innocent civilians who had come out of their homes to earn two-times meal for their families. He said, soon after the explosion, he had talked to the provincial government and directed the authorities to extending all possible help to families of the victims.

Without naming any country, group or individual, the president said the flagrant act was the handiwork of the enemies of the country. "I was grieved at the loss of innocent people. I extend my heartfelt condolences to families of the dead and pray for early recovery of the wounded," said the president.

Regarding the fight against terrorism, Karzai said he was working on a new plan to talk to people of the provinces and listen to their suggestions, demands and complaints.

He said they were trying to strengthen the national police, national army and put an end to corruption in government departments.