U.S. Department of State

Washington D.C., September 14, 2001

Dear Mr. Ambassador,

Overwhelmed with utmost sorrow and sympathy over the past most tragic events, I am still at a loss of words which could properly express my condolences to all the victims’ families and all of the American people.

We have yet to face and comprehend the consequences of this great tragedy both as individuals and societies. As it has been repeated many times, these disastrous events will surely alter the future of all of us.

Let me express my strong condemnation over those who have committed and aided in this act against the American people and democratic freedom.

I would like to reiterate my Government’s readiness to help your Government and the American people ease the burden, and ultimately overcome the consequences of this great tragedy. We all have to persevere in our common struggle to start building anew the world in which the cities, ordinary people and symbols of civilizations can never again be exposed to such horrendous acts of organized terrorist lunacy.

On behalf of the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Washington as well as my wife Elena and myself, once again please accept my deepest condolences.

Sincerely,

Ivan Grdesic

Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia