Important Texts 2002

Ambassador Weiser's Remarks at Commemoration, September 11, 2002

Welcome and thank you for joining us. President Bush has issued a proclamation declaring September 11th as Patriots Day, a day where we will remember and honor the thousands of innocent victims who perished in the terrorist attacks, victims that included the citizens of more than 90 nations. We will not forget the events of that terrible morning nor will we forget how policemen, firemen, servicemen and ordinary citizens responded in extraordinary ways in New York, at the Pentagon, and in the skies over Pennsylvania - with heroism and selflessness; with compassion and courage; and with prayer and hope.

We must remember that these terrorist attacks which sought to tear us apart, only succeeded in bringing us together, both in spirit and in a worldwide coalition against terrorism. September 11th was not the beginning of global terror, but it was the beginning of the world's concerted effort to eliminate terrorism. History will remember that day not only as a day of tragedy, but as a day of decision when the civilized world was stirred to anger and to action. Much has been accomplished in the campaign against terrorism during the past year, but the struggle will require vigilance, perseverance, and sacrifice for many years to come.

America will always remember the outpouring of friendship and support from nations around the world. We express our gratitude to the millions of people from every nation who share our grief over the loss of innocent life, who share our resolve to lift the dark cloud of terror from the world, and who share the collective obligation to ensure that justice is done, that freedom prevails, and that democracy endures.

The events of September 11th reinforced Slovakia's friendship with America. You are a friend who was there for us at the time of our greatest need. You shared our sorrow, you shed tears, you offered your help, and you expressed your anger at the indignity that had been perpetrated against our people as if it had been an attack against you.

You knew that this was not just an attack against America but that it was an attack against democracy and against the very foundations of society. You knew this because it has been only a few short years since freedom and democracy became a part of your lives. These were ideals that your people yearned for, fought for, and yes, even died for, just as you did against the Nazis so many years ago. You know the value of these priceless treasures, since you have been without them for so much of your more than one thousand year history.

So Slovakia stepped forward. You have not only offered your help, but have given your help in so many ways, including sending your sons to Afghanistan to help in the war against terrorism, the fight for democracy, and the battle for freedom. Dakujem - We will not forget your friendship that was there when we needed it the most. You were there for us and we will be there for you as we work together in the years to come. Dakujem. Dakujem velmi pekne.