Secretary-General, Calling Osama bin Laden’s Death ‘Watershed Moment’, Pledges

 

Continuing United Nations Leadership in Global Anti-Terrorism Campaign

 

Following is UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s statement in New York today following the news of Osama bin Laden’s death:

The death of Osama bin Laden, announced by [United States] President [Barack] Obama last night, is a watershed moment in our common global fight against terrorism.  The crimes of Al-Qaida touched most continents, bringing tragedy and loss of life to thousands of men, women and children.

The United Nations condemns in the strongest possible terms terrorism in all its forms, regardless of its purpose and wherever it is committed.  This is a day to remember the victims and families of victims, here in the United States and everywhere in the world.  The United Nations will continue to fight against terrorism and will lead this campaign to fight against terrorism.

I remember personally, vividly, the day of 11 September 2001.  I was in New York on that dark day.  The United Nations is committed to continue to lead this campaign with world leaders to fight against international terrorism.  I thank you very much.

Personally, I am very much relieved by the news that justice has been done to such a mastermind of international terrorism.  I would like to commend the work and the determined and principled commitment of many people in the world who have been struggling to eradicate international terrorism.

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a global counter-terrorism strategy, and on the basis of that, we will continue to work together with Member States of the United Nations to completely eradicate global terrorism.  Thank you very much.  I need your support.  Thank you.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record