Statement by the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs
concerning the terrorist attacks on the U.S.

September 12, 2001

Yesterday the world watched with horror the massive destruction and suffering caused by the shocking events that took place in the United States of America.  The condolences of the Government and people of Cyprus to President Bush, the American people and the relatives of the victims have already been expressed at the highest level, condemning at the same time these abhorrent acts of terrorism that brought carnage, terror and loss of life to many innocent people.

The terrorist attacks were attacks not only against the United States and its people but against the international legal order, democracy, freedom and the most fundamental of all human rights, that of the right to life. Yesterday, terrorists attacked humanity and human dignity. The Government of Cyprus unconditionally condemns these criminal acts of terrorism, the aim of which was to indiscriminately kill, maim and terrorise, whoever the perpetrators were. There is no cause that can be justified by criminal acts against innocent people such as those witnessed yesterday.

The Republic of Cyprus holds as a central value the respect for the rule of law and the Charter of the United Nations.  It is party to the international conventions dealing with terrorism and has always unequivocally condemned terrorist acts, whilst cooperating with other governments to suppress it.  Tragically, however, terrorism is an increasing phenomenon that transcends borders wreaking havoc and suffering on individuals, communities and countries alike.

Yesterday's events underline that the members of the international community, both individually and collectively, must redouble their efforts in a more systematic and coordinated manner to fight terrorism and its sponsorship. On its part, the Government of Cyprus reiterates its commitment to the international fight against terrorism and will seek to further augment its capacity to collect and utilize information for the purpose of combating terrorism and cooperating with others to this end. It will continue and further enhance its cooperation, both at the bilateral level, as well as in international fora to combat, prevent and suppress terrorism in all its manifestations and forms.

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