Speeches and Remarks 2006

Remarks by Mr. Michael S. Owen
Consul General of the United States of America in Mumbai
9-11 Commemoration of Terror Victims
September 11, 2006

Ambassador Mulford, Dr. Sankaran, and the Honorable Ms. Dutt have expressed the sentiments of many of us here today.  I would like to add that, although terrorism has shaken all of us and the struggle against violence is far from over, there is much reason for hope.  

We have many tools to combat terrorism, and among the most important is communication.  Our two countries have joined in the global effort to condemn the cowardice of terrorist attacks as a means of pursuing political, religious, or ideological goals.  Together, we help each other in confronting a threat without borders.  And we have made progress working together. 

Beyond the battlefield, our globally connected world calls on us to continually reaffirm our belief that violence against innocent victims solves no problem.  Many among us today devote time and talents to breed the hope, the caring, and the curiosity to help erase the false sense of “us” and “them” in a seemingly divided world. 

I would like to commend the efforts of the writers, teachers, community and youth leaders, and public servants here with us today who have taken bold steps to challenge our citizens, and particularly our youth, to confront the stereotypes that they hold.  For Americans, September 11 marks an opportunity to learn from tragedy and to join together in our efforts to build understanding and trust among diverse cultures, the basis of civilized society, and to condemn, categorically, hatred and killing of innocent people. 

I would like to thank His Excellency, Ambassador Mulford, Chief Secretary Dr. Sankaran, the Honorable Ms. Dutt, Dr. Pasricha, Commissioner Roy, all of our guests, and our Consulate General community for joining today’s ceremony of honor and commitment. 

Thank you again for helping make this September 11 commemoration a meaningful one in the friendship between India and the United States of America.  Thank you.