On Terrorist Attacks in Ankara: Statement to the PC

Sign over the entrance to the Hofburg Congress Center, the location of many OSCE meetings, in Vienna, Austria. (USOSCE/Colin Peters)

The United States strongly condemns the horrific terrorist attack in the Kizilay district of Ankara on March 13. We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.

Every month this year we have offered our sympathy to the families of innocent victims who have lost their lives in terrorist attacks in Turkey: after the Diyarbakir bombing in January, after the Ankara bombing on February 17, and now after yet another attack in Ankara. This is three times too many. We join Foreign Minister Steinmeier, Secretary General Zannier, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Kanerva, and many others around this table in publicly condemning this senseless violence.

As we mourn together, we also stand together with the Turkish people and reaffirm our strong partnership with our NATO Ally Turkey in combatting the shared threat of terrorism.

We also extend our condolences to OSCE partner Tunisia and the Tunisian people for the recent attack that they witnessed. We stand with you as well in mourning and in partnership.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Kate M. Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna