SOFIA, BULGARIA
September 13, 2001

Citizens of Bulgaria, American citizens, foreigners who are present on the territory of Bulgaria:

I`d like to say just a few words to you about the tragic events which have taken place in the United States and which we are all trying to come to grips with.

President Bush in his remarks said: `...our fellow citizens, our way of life, our very freedom came under attack in a series of deliberate and deadly terrorist acts. The victims were in airplanes, or in their offices; secretaries, businessmen and women, military and federal workers; moms and dads, friends and neighbors. Thousands of lives were suddenly ended by evil, despicable acts of terrorism.`

I don`t think I can improve on President Bush`s words. Our other leaders have also spoken out. Secretary of State Colin Powell yesterday evening called on the nations of the world and the peoples in the world for unity in the fight against international terrorism. This message was blunt and brief.

We are going to count who is with us and who is against us at this time. The Bulgarian Government has expressed its sympathy and its support in many ways - they have increased protection around American facilities in Bulgaria including around my home. Our people feel safe and they feel wanted in Bulgaria.

The Prime Minister spoke to me personally shortly after these incidents. I`ve had personal contacts with other members of the government and with the opposition. We`ve had an outpouring of support from ordinary Bulgarians - from business people, from local mayors, from the man on the street. The sympathy of the Bulgarian people and the support of the Bulgarian government are noted, and it has been noted in Washington.

I have no inside information about any particular threat against Americans or American facilities or anyone else in Bulgaria. We feel safe here. We feel protected by the Bulgarian government and by our own resources. But I just want to thank the people of Bulgaria, to thank the Government for the support that it has given us and to express my appreciation for that.

This is a time to think of steps ahead. I would not care to be involved in the decision process which we will take to enact our own retribution against those who have carried out these acts. I think it will not be a pleasant prospect.
On a more positive note, we have much to do to repair our facilities, to rebuild our lives, and to get on with the tasks ahead. In that, I know that I can count on the support of Bulgaria, its Government and its people.

Thank you very much.