The goal of the terrorist attack in Vienna was “not only to cause death and suffering but also to divide our society,” the Austrian Embassy in Bosnia said in a statement to media, adding that it must be clear that the enemies are members of a religion, but extremists, and that “there must be no tolerance for intolerance” in Austria’s society.
The full statement follows:
“Austria was deeply affected after the terrorist attack in Vienna on November 2.
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Four civilians were killed in cold blood from close range, another 17 people were seriously wounded, and some of them are fighting for their lives.
Our thoughts and our compassion are in these difficult hours with the victims, the injured and their families.
Austria has always been, is and always will be a nation of diversity, dialogue and mutual respect. Therefore, this terrorist attack has shaken our country and all the people who live in it peacefully with each other even more.
It is clear that Austria will resolutely and with all its force defend democracy and the values of our coexistence.
The Islamic extremism, which is directed against all our values and against our Constitution, seeks not only to cause death and suffering but also to divide our society. And we will not allow that.
We will not leave room for hatred. Our enemies are never members of a religion, but extremists. It must always be clear to us that this is not a conflict between different religions. There must be no tolerance for intolerance in our society.
Together with its partners, Austria will continue to defend peace and basic European values.
Due to this heinous act and attack on our freedom and democracy, the Austrian Federal Government has declared three days of state mourning.
On this occasion, we would like to express thanks for all the messages of solidarity from all over Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
