U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release August 19, 2004 2004/916


One Year Anniversary of Bombing At UN Headquarters in Iraq

Statement by Secretary of State Colin L. Powell

Today marks the one-year anniversary of the tragic bombing of the UN 's Headquarters in Iraq. On behalf of the United States, I pay tribute to and mourn the lives lost on August 19, 2003. The death of my dear friend Sergio Vieira de Mello, who devoted his life to helping others, as well as the other dedicated UN personnel serving in Iraq, was a senseless loss for the United Nations, the Iraqi people and all who believe in the promise of a free and democratic Iraq. To the survivors as well as the families and colleagues who lost loved ones, we will not let their sacrifice be in vain.

This vicious attack cannot break the will of United Nations, Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and all of us who are committed to helping the people of Iraq build a better future. The UN 's work and its progress to date is a testament to the efforts begun by Sergio Vieira de Mello and his UN colleagues. The Secretary-General 's Special Representative, Jehangir Qazi, is now in Iraq and supporting the Interim Iraqi Government as it embarks on a new chapter in the country 's political transition and prepares for democratic elections.

The international community will not be deterred by the immoral act of a year ago. The United States remains steadfast in its support for the United Nations mission in Iraq. We will continue to work side by side as partners to help build a free and peaceful Iraq. That 's what Sergio and his brave colleagues would have wanted.

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