September 11, 2007

Statement by Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsány on the Anniversary of the September 11 Terror Attacks

September 11, the date of the evil terrorist attacks on the United States, has become a day of mourning. Not only the American people but all the citizens of the free world remember that day and the victims of this tragedy with shock and sadness.

This anniversary, on the other hand, reminds us of our own responsibility: that we have to protect our freedom, our order and our security every day; and the democratic institutions, constitutional rights, the values of our Republic, and the dignity of others are all integral part of this.

All democrats feel this responsibility and do all the countries taking part in the war on terror. And this is the responsibility borne by the Hungarian soldiers protecting our freedom in several places of the world. They need to know that all the citizens of Hungary think of them with respect and gratitude for their service.

Although there is no direct terrorist threat in Hungary but the reason why Hungarian soldiers have to serve in distant countries is to prevent such future threats. The Hungarian military’s participation in international peacekeeping missions and the modernization of the military are also part of such efforts.

Since September 11, 2001, the most horrible terrorist attack ever, the world has changed. We all have work to do in order to create a more secure and happier life for all of us through this change.

Ferenc Gyurcsány
Prime Minister of the Republic of Hungary