New York
UN
Remarks by Under-Secretary-General Atul Khare at the Wreath-Laying Ceremony Commemorating the 21st Anniversary of the UNHQ Bombing in Baghdad
Statements | António Guterres, Secretary-General
Statements | António Guterres, Secretary-General
Excellency, Dr. Abbas Al-Fatlawi, Chargé d'Affaires of the Republic of Iraq to the United Nations, my dearest colleagues, Friends,
It is an honour to join you today on behalf of the Secretary-General.
We stand together in solemn remembrance of the tragic bombing in Baghdad twenty-one years ago. The deadly attack on the United Nations Headquarters at the Canal Hotel in Baghdad claimed the lives of twenty-two of our colleagues -- national and international alike -- including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello.
The memory of that day remains etched in our hearts, reminding us of the immense sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of peace, security, and human dignity.
The Canal Hotel was more than just a place of accommodation; it was a symbol of our commitment to diplomacy, cooperation, and understanding.
We also extend our deepest sympathy to the families and loved ones who bear the burden of this loss. Their strength and resilience are a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have been affected.
The lessons of that tragic day have informed our actions ever since, driving us to strengthen our commitment to the safety and security of our personnel and to uphold the principles for which they stood. We must, however, also recognize that in the years since the Canal Hotel bombing, the global challenges have multiplied.
We are reminded of this by the ongoing work of our colleagues in some of the world’s most perilous environments. 2023 was the deadliest year on record for UN workers. 2024 could be even worse.
We must continue to strive for a world where conflict gives way to dialogue, where suffering is met with compassion, and where every human life is valued and protected.
Please join me now in a moment of silence as we remember our colleagues and renew our dedication to the cause for which they gave their lives.
Thank you.
It is an honour to join you today on behalf of the Secretary-General.
We stand together in solemn remembrance of the tragic bombing in Baghdad twenty-one years ago. The deadly attack on the United Nations Headquarters at the Canal Hotel in Baghdad claimed the lives of twenty-two of our colleagues -- national and international alike -- including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello.
The memory of that day remains etched in our hearts, reminding us of the immense sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of peace, security, and human dignity.
The Canal Hotel was more than just a place of accommodation; it was a symbol of our commitment to diplomacy, cooperation, and understanding.
We also extend our deepest sympathy to the families and loved ones who bear the burden of this loss. Their strength and resilience are a testament to the enduring spirit of those who have been affected.
The lessons of that tragic day have informed our actions ever since, driving us to strengthen our commitment to the safety and security of our personnel and to uphold the principles for which they stood. We must, however, also recognize that in the years since the Canal Hotel bombing, the global challenges have multiplied.
We are reminded of this by the ongoing work of our colleagues in some of the world’s most perilous environments. 2023 was the deadliest year on record for UN workers. 2024 could be even worse.
We must continue to strive for a world where conflict gives way to dialogue, where suffering is met with compassion, and where every human life is valued and protected.
Please join me now in a moment of silence as we remember our colleagues and renew our dedication to the cause for which they gave their lives.
Thank you.