In heartfelt solidarity with the American people, the German people remembers the appalling events of 11 September 2001, exactly 13 years ago today.

That day not only changed the world but also revealed the destructive and inhumane face of international terrorism. The threat of international terrorism is still with us, as developments during the last few weeks and months have shown, especially with regard to ISIS.

During the last few years, the US and its European allies have undertaken joint efforts to counter the terrorist threat and will continue to do so. I have assured our American friends that Germany will remain a strong, close and reliable partner at the side of the US.