Ambassador's Speeches

"September 11, 2001: A Time to Remember" by Amb. Thomas Hull

Freetown, September 11, 2006

Contact: Public Affairs Section

        The fifth anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks is a reminder of the inhumanity of terrorist mass murderers whom the world must confront and the shared challenge we face as an international community to confront an ideology that promotes hate, destruction and death. The anniversary is an appropriate occasion for the international community to reaffirm our unequivocal condemnation of all acts of terror.  No faith condones the deliberate targeting and killing of innocent civilians, and no cause or grievance - no matter how legitimate – can ever justify it.

            The victims of September 11th were citizens of more than 90 different countries and adherents of many faiths.  Terrorism affects all of us.  It has brought tragedy, destruction, death and terrible grief to innocent people across the world, from Kenya and Tanzania, to Indonesia, Morocco, Spain, Jordan, England, India and Egypt.  Since Osama Bin Laden declared war on America ten years ago, thousands of people of many nations, religions, races and beliefs have been murdered as a result of his instigation or incitement of acts of terror.

            The fight against terrorism is a concerted fight for values and principles that are universal.  Much more unites us as citizens of the world than divides us. Across all borders, we share a common humanity.  While the color of our skin, the language we speak, or the way we worship may be different, people everywhere aspire to speak their minds, participate in their society, worship freely, live in security, and pursue education, jobs and greater opportunities for their families.

            As we look back on September 11, 2001, we also look forward.  We seek to work in a spirit of partnership with people and nations across the world to confront this ideology of hate and foster a climate of hope and opportunity.  We are far from perfect, yet we believe the ideals of freedom and justice that guide us are right and true for people everywhere.  We want to work in partnership with nations throughout the world in ways that will result in a more peaceful and prosperous world, and a better life for people everywhere.  And we renew our commitment to our founding conviction that all people are equal and equally deserving of justice, respect, opportunity and dignity.