Canada
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien
Ottawa, Ontaria
September 11, 2001
I was stricken by news and television pictures coming from the United States
this morning. It is impossible to fully comprehend the evil that would have
conjured up such a cowardly and depraved assault upon thousands of innocent
people. There can be no cause or grievance that could ever justify such unspeakable
violence. Indeed, such an attack is an assault not only on the targets but an
offense against the freedom and rights of all civilized nations.
All Canadians are praying that the brave firefighters and rescue crews who currently
on the scene will be successful in limiting the casualties. We stand ready to
provide any assistance that our American friends may need at this very, very
difficult hour and in the subsequent investigation.
Aline joins me in offering, on behalf of all Canadians, our deepest sympathies
to the families of the victims and to the American people.