The Maltese government increased security at all official French establishments in Malta, French ambassador to Malta Beatrice Le Fraper du Hellen said.

Speaking at a candle-lit vigil in St Julian's this afternoon, the ambassador said she was deeply shocked by the attacks in Paris last night.

"These are attacks on our principles, of equality and freedom. This is a war but we will not give in to the sentiments of xenophobia and racism, that is what they want," she said.

The ambassador said the French community in Malta had unted together after the attacks in a show of solidarity.

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