Statement from Pugwash President and Pugwash Secretary General 23 July 2011.

Our thoughts are with the people of Norway today, as news of the terror and devastation in Oslo and in Utoeya island spreads across the globe. We note with deep sadness the apparent deliberate targeting of young people seeking to become engaged in the political process. In December 1995 the leadership of Pugwash stood with the citizens of Norway, celebrating the awarding in Oslo of the Nobel Peace Prize to our organization. Today the global Pugwash community stands with our Norwegian friends. We send condolences to the bereaved families and express our solidarity with the Norwegian Pugwash Group.

Acts of terrorism cannot detract from the world’s efforts for peace. The Norwegian government’s strong and courageous leadership in creating a more just and equitable world is unparalleled. If anything, such wanton acts of violence only serve to recommit good people around the world to ongoing efforts to eliminate the causes of terrorism, to control the spread of conventional arms, to promote dialogue over military confrontation.

Jayantha Dhanapala
President

Paolo Cotta-Ramusino
Secretary General

Dear Jayantha, Paolo, Sandra and all Pugwashites,

Thanks a lot for the Statement from the Pugwash President and Pugwash Secretary General regarding yesterday`s sad events in Norway. It was a warming and comforting message to all Norwegians which are deeply shocked. The statement will be forwarded to the Norwegian government.

It is somewhat strange living and working in Oslo but for the time being staying in our cottage in the Norwegian mountains far from the events. Furthermore we are passing the island Utøya when driving to our cottage.

Norway is a small and open society with short distances between the royal family, the government and the grassroots. Yesterday`s events will definitely not change this. Neither will Norway`s contributions to international cooperation be affected.

It was nice to see all of you in Berlin. A special thanks to all who contributed to a well organized and very interesting conference.

All the best
Bent Natvig