ABIDJAN, March 13 (Xinhua) -- Ivorian Vice Prime Minister and Defense Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara on Friday reaffirmed Cote d'Ivoire's commitment to strengthening its counterterrorism measures.

Ouattara made the reaffirmation in the seaside town of Grand-Bassam during an official remembrance ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attack there, about 30 km southeast of Abidjan.

He highlighted a significant strengthening of the operational capabilities of the country's defense and security forces, which are now better trained and better equipped.

"Our forces have strengthened their operational vigilance to ensure that such tragedies never happen again," he said.

The minister also stressed international cooperation in the fight against terrorism, noting that counterterrorism remains an absolute priority for Cote d'Ivoire and its partners.

On March 13, 2016, three gunmen opened fire at hotels and along the beach in Grand-Bassam, killing 19 people and injuring 33 others. ■