Chisinau honors 9/11 victims. Maia Sandu: "September 11 showed solidarity's power"
The September 11 attacks not only targeted the United States but also challenged the foundational principles of free societies, including human dignity, freedom, and the rights of individuals to think, express themselves, believe, and make choices. This statement was made by President Maia Sandu during a ceremony commemorating the approximately 3,000 victims who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
The event held at the US Embassy headquarters was attended not only by the leadership of the Republic of Moldova but also by diplomats accredited in Chisinau.
"The Republic of Moldova stands with the United States, just as we did 25 years ago. We reaffirm a fundamental belief that unites our nations: while terror and totalitarianism can take lives, they cannot defeat the freely expressed will of the people," declared President Maia Sandu.
The head of state expressed her condolences to the grieving families and thanked the intervention teams and all those who risked their lives to save others.
Additionally, the president emphasized the ongoing support provided by the US as a strategic partner of the Republic of Moldova. She reconfirmed the commitment to the core values that America has upheld through the generations: the right of every individual to choose their own path and the sovereign right of peoples to determine their own future.
The President emphasized that 25 years after the attacks, the principles remain just as vital.
“Terrorism, extremism, and authoritarianism may take different forms, but they all share the belief that fear and force can undermine human freedom. September 11 taught us something important. It demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of terror, showcased the power of solidarity, and reminded us that free societies are strongest when they stand united,” stated Maia Sandu.
Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popșoi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterated that the Republic of Moldova stands with the U.S. and the international community in reaffirming a shared commitment to prevent and combat terrorism while strengthening cooperation for a safer, more peaceful, and more stable world.
On September 11, 2001, 19 terrorists affiliated with al-Qaeda hijacked four airplanes. Two of these planes struck the Twin Towers in New York City, another hit the Pentagon, and the fourth crashed in Pennsylvania.
The attacks resulted in nearly three thousand deaths and about six thousand injuries.
