PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday issued the following statement to mark the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and the National Day of Service:

“Twenty-two years ago today, the world watched in horror as the worst terrorist attack in American history unfolded.

“Today, we remember the almost 3,000 people, including 24 Canadians, whose lives were senselessly taken that day. Our thoughts remain with those who lost loved ones, the thousands who were injured, and all those who continue to live with the trauma of this tragedy.

“Amid the chaos, the bravery of countless heroes shone through. Firefighters, paramedics, police officers, military personnel, and members of the community ran toward the devastation, risking their own lives in the hopes of saving others. Many paid the ultimate price.

“On this National Day of Service, we remember communities like Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, that exemplified the best of our country by taking in stranded passengers and providing them with comfort, hot meals, and a place to sleep.

“After 22 years, we haven’t forgotten those who were lost on 9/11 – and we will never forget. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I invite all Canadians to honour the selflessness of the many people who provided help when it was needed most, as we remember those who lost their lives that day.”

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre said in a statement: “September 11, 2001, was a day that shook the world. Canadians vividly remember the horrific images of fires burning and buildings collapsing as despicable cowards carried out one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in history on the soil of our closest ally.

“More than two decades later, we continue to grieve for the nearly 3,000 innocent victims – among them 24 Canadians – who were murdered by these monstrous acts of evil. Our thoughts remain with the families that lost loved ones in the attacks and all those who were affected by this horrific tragedy.

“As we reflect on all that was lost that day, we also remember the incredible heroism of those who stepped up in the aftermath. We remember the unmatched courage of the first responders who rushed toward danger, risking their lives to save others.

“As Canadians, we look back with particular pride on the immense generosity of those in Gander, who opened their homes, schools and churches to stranded airline passengers in a time of unprecedented catastrophe. In the face of the disgusting cowardice that darkened the world that day, these incredible people were a beacon of light and hope – displaying the enduring bonds of friendship that have helped Canada and the United States overcome even the most difficult crises.

“Today – just as we did on that horrific day twenty-two years ago – we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our American neighbours as we press forward in our efforts to protect our people and build a world free from terror.

“Never forget.”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh issued the following statement:

“Twenty-two years ago today, the world watched in horror as the United States was struck with the deadliest terrorist attack in its history. Hundreds of first responders risked their lives to save those trapped in the World Trade Centre and thousands of Americans needlessly lost their loved ones on that tragic day.

“People across our country and around the world opened their doors to help Americans stranded far from home. In the face of unthinkable, senseless violence, the world showed empathy and love to those in need.

“In the spirit of National Day of Service, New Democrats honour all who acted selflessly on that day. Let this day be a time to recommit to building a more inclusive, compassionate world and use hope to guide us through precarious times. It’s on all of us to counter hate, wherever it occurs, to stand up relentlessly against extremism.  Let us never forget what happened today. Let us remember all those who lost their loved ones and strive to build a world where horrific events like these never happen again.”