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FSM condemns attacks on U.S.

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): September 12, 2001 - The Federated States of Micronesia woke up this morning to images of horror on their television screens from an apparent coordinated terrorist attack on the United States.

In what U.S. President George Bush called 'cowardly actions,' two commercial passenger aircrafts crashed into both towers of the World Trade Center in Manhattan, less then an hour later another commercial jetliner slammed into the Pentagon. Half an hour later a jetliner crashed southeast of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. All those aboard are presumed dead. The count from the flight manifests total 226 from all four aircraft, crew and passengers. The number of people killed in Manhattan is not yet known, but a devastating casualty count in the thousands is expected from the collapsed Twin Towers.

The reason behind the attacks and the person or persons responsible remains a high speculation.

Shocked governments around the world offer condolences to the United States in the wake of the devastating attack on the symbols of American financial and military powers, the Twin Towers and the Pentagon.

President Leo A. Falcam's letter to the White House expressed FSM's solidarity with the U.S. by declaring today September 12, 2001, a day of mourning, 'The People and the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia stand with you in this tragic hour and join you in condemning the evil perpetrators behind these contemptible acts that are void of the sanctity of human life.'

The United States government has put its forces on high alert, tightening security at embassies, some of which are temporarily shut down. Security at airports and public buildings are also braced for more possible attacks.

The U.S. Embassy in the Federated States of Micronesia says it will remain open for services, but have taken appropriate measures to ensure the safety of the staff.

President Falcam's Statement to the people of the FSM is as follows:

My Fellow Citizens,

As some of you may have already know, today, our friend and close ally, the United States of America has been the victim of terrorist acts in both New York and Washington, D.C. The cowardly act have resulted in extensive loss of lives and properties.

As an expression of our close friendship and solidarity with the people and Government of the United State of American in this tragic hour, I hereby declare today, September 12, 2001, as a day of mourning. I ask that all citizens of the Federates States of Micronesia take a moment of silence and pray for those who have suffered and lost loved ones in these unthinkable terrorists acts.

Thank you,

(signed)

Leo A. Falcam,
President

For further information on this release, please contact:

FSM Office of the President
Public Information: Press, Radio, & Video
P.O Box 34
Palikir Station, Pohnpei, FM 96941
Tel.: (691) 320-2548/2092
Cable: FSM Gov't
Fax: (691) 320-4356
e-mail: fsmpio@mail.fm
http://www.fsmpio.fm/