Canada joined other countries in condemning deadly attacks Saturday at two crowded synagogues in Turkey's largest city.

At least 20 people were killed and more than 250 injured in the car bombs outside the houses of worship in Istanbul. The buildings were filled with people attending Sabbath services.

"All Canadians join me in condemning these cowardly acts of terror. Turkey, like Canada, is a country where people of all faiths are able to live together in peace and mutual respect," said Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of the victims and heartfelt sympathy to the Turkish people and especially the Jewish community of Istanbul in this time of need," he added in a statement.

"Together, we stand with them against anti-Semitism wherever it occurs."

In Washington, U.S. President George W. Bush said "the United States stands resolutely with Turkey in the global war on terrorism." The nature of the bombings highlights how hateful and maniacal the killers are, he added.

"The focus of these attacks on Turkey's Jewish community – in Istanbul's synagogues where men, women, and children gathered to worship God – remind us that our enemy in the war against terror is without conscience or faith," Bush said in a statement.

Turkey is the only member of NATO with a Muslim majority. The country has had diplomatic ties with Israel for more than 50 years.

Some Arabs accuse Turkey of being far too friendly with the U.S., especially its recent offer to send troops to Iraq.