2002 Press Releases

President Niyazov's Condolence Letter to President Bush on 9/11 Anniversary

Sept. 11, 2002

TO HIS EXCELLENCY, Mr. GEORGE BUSH
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

YOUR EXCELLENCY, HONORED MR. PRESIDENT,

Today, a year after the tragic events of September 11, I am addressing you and, in your person, all the American citizens, again with words of support and solidarity, honoring the memory of those who survived, revering their bravery and dignity.

September 11 became the moment of truth for the whole world, which had seen a horrendous character and the real actions of those who are preaching terror, intolerance, extremism, and violence. But this day, at the same time, has also become a reference point for new relations among the countries and the nations of our planet, for a new philosophy based on the realization that all who, today, treasure peace and stability, public order and security, mutual understanding, and respect, have common and united goals.

I am convinced that the roots of terrorism are not in religion, nor in the national characteristics. The culture medium for terror is economic backwardness, social insecurity, poverty and, as a result, a sense of doom of the entire nations. We believe that eradication of the broad causes of terrorism will begin with the rise of the economies of the poor countries, with the creation of new employment opportunities, with the integration of countries and regions into the system of civilized international political and economic relations based on equal rights. And to this very aspiration are directed the efforts of Turkmenistan towards implementation of the Trans-Afghan pipeline project, our proposal to establish in the Central Asia a Consultative Council of the state leaders, which would take coordinated actions towards developing the political and economic relations in the region, actions which are directed to promote the region's progress and development.

Honored Mr. President.

This year has served as a wonderful example of cooperation and solidarity between our nations, of their dedication to the ideals of humanism and mutual assistance. Having joined unconditionally to the efforts of the world community in the fight against terrorism, Turkmenistan has and continues to make significant contribution to the matter of providing humanitarian aid the Afghan people, or restoring peaceful and creative life in this country. Today we must pay tribute to the citizens of Turkmenistan and the citizens of Ashgabat, to the workers of the international organizations, to all those, who for this past year long, have been handling deliveries of the humanitarian aid to the Afghan nation through the territory of Turkmenistan and have achieved a high level of efficiency and cooperation in this matter. I am also grateful to you, Mr. President, for your personal attention to the successful implementation of this task. I extend to Your Excellency wishes of happiness and prosperity. May the Almighty safeguard the peace and security of the nations of Turkmenistan and of the United States, of all people on earth. May the tragedy, which we thing of with pain today, never happen again. With sincere respect,

President of Turkmenistan,
Saparmurat Niyazov