We here in Australia have been dumbfounded, heartbroken and feeling utterly helpless as we have witnessed the merciless attacks on New York and Washington.
Like all of you, we, too, have felt that initial numbing shock.
We have begun to feel the bitterness that turns to anger.
Although this tragedy has had a profound effect on Australians, whatever we feel is a mere shadow of your agony over there.
Nevertheless, we do feel a connection.
Over the years and particularly during my visits to your country last year, I have made many acquaintances and some very good friendships with Americans. I am like most Australians in this way.
Your nation is so grand, so rich and so strong. My nation in comparison is small. We see your suffering and we are frustrated by our inability to help you.
As a citizen of a medium-size free nation, a country that owes much to the United States for its contribution to our liberty, I can only say this: America has many enemies in the world, it’s true. But you also have friends–many, many friends.
And I hope you know that your friends will stand by you in your grief, your efforts to come to terms with this pitiless attack and, when the time comes, in your resolve to hunt down and punish the murderers who have struck out at you.
Those who have attacked you have also attacked us, as surely as if we were watching Sydney burn.
