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Bush Observes 10th Anniversary of Massacre at Srebrenica

11 July 2005

President says U.S. committed to ensuring those responsible face justice

President Bush offered his deepest condolences and sympathy July 11 to the victims of the massacre at Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina on the occasion of its 10^th anniversary.

He also reiterated the U.S. commitment “to ensuring that those responsible for these crimes face justice, most notably Radovan Karadzic and Ratko Mladic.”

Following is the text of his statement:

(begin text)

The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
July 11, 2005

10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE MASSACRE IN SREBRENICA

On July 11, we remember the tragic loss of lives in Srebrenica ten years ago.  The mass murder of nearly eight thousand men and boys was Europe's worst massacre of civilians since World War II and a grim reminder that there are evil people who will kill the innocent without conscience or mercy.  This horrific event remains a source of pain for people in the Balkan region and for all those who believe in freedom and the dignity of human life.  I join all Americans in sending our deepest condolences and expressions of sympathy on this solemn occasion.

The United States supports the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the families of those who suffered as they commemorate this terrible chapter in history.  We grieve for their loss and applaud the strength and courage of those who have returned to Srebrenica to rebuild their lives.  We also remain committed to ensuring that those responsible for these crimes face justice, most notably [indicted war criminals] Radovan Karadzic and Ratko Mladic.

I appreciate all the individuals who are advancing reconciliation and a strong European future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.  A modern and democratic Balkan region is an essential element in a Europe that is unified, free, and at peace.   As we work to make the world more peaceful, we share a common faith in the value of freedom, the sanctity of life, and the triumph of good over evil.

May God bless the people of the Balkan region and the souls of the departed.

(end text)

(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)