A Message from Secretary Clinton to Commemorate the First Anniversary of the Attacks of July 22 in Norway

July 22, 2012

Meeting Utoya survivors (Andrea Gjestvang, Norwegian MFA)

A year ago, the world witnessed unspeakable tragedy as terrorist attacks in Norway took the lives of 77 people, injured hundreds of others, and plunged an entire nation into mourning.

In the wake of the disaster, Norway’s leaders responded with a call for “more democracy, more transparency, and more humanity”, affirming your country's  values. The Norwegian people refused to allow these attacks to weaken the Norwegian spirit.

During my recent visit to Norway, I had the opportunity to meet with some of the survivors of Utøya. We spoke about their lives and their hopes, and I was struck by how forward-­looking, determined, and compassionate they were - caring about other people and looking to find ways we can work together to improve people’s lives.

Today, as we remember all those lost and affected by these tragic events of a year ago, the United States reaffirms its strong support for the Norwegian people and our deep and abiding friendship.

-Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton