Press Releases

A Message from Ambassador Jackson McDonald To Commemorate the Fifth Anniversary of the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001

September 11, 2006

Monday, September 11, 2006, marks the fifth anniversary of the terrorist attacks that claimed nearly 3,000 lives in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania.  The victims were citizens of more than 90 different countries, including many from West Africa.  On this solemn occasion we should reflect on the struggle against terrorism that has been waged by the United States and its allies and remember those whose lives have been lost in the struggle since that day five years ago.  This is an opportunity for Americans, Guineans and 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 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 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 an international community, we must foster debate, encourage education and provide information, to help people learn and make decisions for themselves, because we believe most people everywhere, of every faith, will choose freedom over tyranny and tolerance over intolerance.