UNIS/VIC/105
22 August 2003
UN Vienna Staff Pays Tribute to Victims of Baghdad Attack
VIENNA, 22 August (UN Information Service) -- The Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Antonio Maria Costa, addressed the staff, as they gathered today in a memorial tribute to the victims of Tuesday's attack on the United Nations in Baghdad. The ceremony was held at the Peace Bell in the Plaza of the Vienna International Centre and attended by staff of the United Nations Office at Vienna and all Vienna-based Organizations, as well as the heads of Vienna-based Organizations, representatives of Permanent Missions and NGOs.
Mr. Costa expressed his shock and grief at this saddest day in UN history, saying that this act of terrorism is a tragic reminder of the risks undertaken daily by United Nations staff across the globe. He extended his condolences to all families and friends of the victims.
"They were all, no matter their functions, working for our common cause of peace and security," Mr. Costa said.
The Director-General's address was followed by a minute of silence and the ringing of the Peace Bell.
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