The people Pakistan are deeply shocked and outraged at the dreadful terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, which have resulted in unprecedented loss of thousands of innocent lives. It is difficult to describe in words our sorrow and grief at this moment of national tragedy for American people. I have conveyed the deepest condolences and sympathy of the people and Government of Pakistan to President George Bush, the bereaved families and the American people in a message last evening.

We strongly condemn this barbaric act of terrorism, which will live in memory as a most heinous crime against humanity. As the world tries to grasp the magnitude of the tragedy and mourn those who have perished, we pray for the recovery of thousands of others who have suffered injuries.

We regard terrorism as an evil that threatens the world community. Concerted international effort is needed to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The carnage in New York and Washington has raised this struggle to a new level. Pakistan has been extending cooperation to international efforts to combat terrorism in the past and will continue to do so. All countries must join hands in this common cause.

I wish to assure President Bush and the U.S. Government of our unstinted cooperation in the fight against terrorism.