Message from Minister for Foreign Affairs Yoriko Kawaguchi to
Minister for Foreign Affairs Igor Ivanov of the Russian Federation
Concerning the Terrorist Bombing on the Moscow Subway

February 6, 2004

On February 6, 2004, a terrorist bombing occurred on the subway of the City of Moscow, Russian Federation. On the same day, the following message from Minister for Foreign Affairs Yoriko Kawaguchi was conveyed via the Embassy of Japan in Moscow to Minister for Foreign Affairs Igor Ivanov of the Russian Federation.

"I would like to express my sincere condolences to the victims of the terrorist bombing that occurred on the Moscow subway and their families.

It is truly heart-rending that such a contemptible act of terrorism should be perpetrated on the subway, a means of public transport utilized by many citizens, and resulting in so many casualties. No words can provide adequate comfort at this time. Such acts of terrorism are unforgivable and can never be justified, for whatever reason.

The fight against terrorism is one that the international community should tackle together and I would like to assure Your Excellency that I will continue to join you in making efforts in this regard."