CDI Headlines Hot Spots Research Topics CDI Publications Public Affairs Search
CDI Home
Terrorism Project Home
 
The World Responds
 
Updated Nov. 6, 2001 Standard Version

The following is a compendium of the international response to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States. An * designates those countries that have pledged military, material, intelligence or logistical support to the U.S. government in fighting terrorism.

 
EUROPE

*ALBANIA: U.S. media reports that the country declared support for the United States. Offers use of its airspace, ports and airports. (09/18/01)

ARMENIA: Offers to send search and rescue experts to the United States. Called for an international effort to fight terrorism. (09/18/01)

*AUSTRIA: Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel offers use of Austrian airspace and to provide other available support, but said its soldiers' involvement in military action is banned by its constitution. (09/18/01)

BELARUS: President Alexander Lukashenko sends his condolences to the United States, but did not join Russia and other European nations in observing a moment of silence. Some officials said American arrogance had prompted the terrorist attacks. (09/18/01)

*BELGIUM: Willing to send troops. U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell meets in Washington with a high-level EU delegation led by Belgian Foreign Minister Louis Michel. (09/19/01) Foreign Minister Louis Michel accuses British Prime Minister Tony Blair of indulging in "overly aggressive rhetoric" and warns the there are "limits to solidarity" with in the European Community. Michel adds that Europe will not be led "blindfolded" into support of for the Anglo-American coalition. (10/16/01)

*BOSNIA: The Foreign Ministry offers "any kind of assistance the U. S. government may ask for." (09/18/01)

*BRITAIN: Prime Minister Tony Blair vowed to stand by the United States. Bush has had several discussions with Blair. The two countries are cooperating on plans for a long-term "war on terrorism." (09/20/01) Blair reaffirms complete commitment at his meeting with Bush. Britain's special forces are already actively working with the U.S. military. (09/21/01) Foreign Secretary Jack Straw meet senior Iranian officials in an effort to gain cooperation and possibly intelligence. (09/26/01) Blair states that he has seen "incontrovertible evidence" linking Osama bi Laden to the Sept. 11 attacks. He is the first European head of state to make such a statement. (09/30/01) Blair states that the Taliban must either "surrender the terrorist or surrender your power." (10/02/01) Speaking to the House of Commons, Blair reiterates that it is incumbent upon the Taliban to hand over Osama bin Laden. The lion's share of the British military has been placed at the disposal of the coalition. (10/05/01) British submarines armed with cruise missiles take part in initial strikes in Afghanistan. The British also authorize use of its territory in Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and the addition of U.K. reconnaissance and tanker aircraft for use in the coalition. (10/06/01) Blair, using the same Arab-language satellite television station used by Osama bin Laden for statements (Al Jazeera), insists that the conflict in Afghanistan is not a war against Islam. (10/08/01) Defense Secretary Geoff says that about 1,000 British troops stationed in Oman will join forces deployed for operation Enduring Freedom. Prime Minister Blair hints that he would prefer to see Osama bin Laden killed in military action rather than stand trail in the West. Mr. Blair added: "He is well protected and well armed. And I have always thought it unlikely that he will be turning up in court one day. But we will wait and see." (10/25/01). The Ministry of Defense announces a contribution of 4,200 personnel, including 200 members of the 40 Commando Royal Marine, for operations in Afghanistan. (10/26/01)

BULGARIA: Prime Minister Simeon Saxcoburggotski pledges support for an international campaign against terror. Foreign Minister Solomon Pasi says his country is ready to act as a NATO ally in the campaign. (09/18/01)

CROATIA: Supports United States campaign against terrorism, but Prime Minister Ivica Racan voices concerns that the EU countries may tighten security around their borders to prevent the entry of terrorists, isolating non-EU-member states, including Croatia. (09/18/01)

*CZECH REPUBLIC: The government expresses full support for U.S. military action against the terrorists. (09/18/01) The government expresses support as a NATO member, and asks its intelligence agencies to track down possible supporters in the country. (09/18/01)

*ESTONIA: The Foreign Ministry says the country would provide the United States "any assistance within the scope of its capabilities." (09/18/01)

EUROPEAN UNION: The European Union expresses total solidarity with the United States. Some observers believe this statement, however, belies rifts within the alliance. EU diplomats will also visit Iran and Syria in an effort to build support for the coalition. European Union promises 20 million euros (U.S. $ 18.5 million) in emergency aid for Pakistan, in the event that country must cope with large numbers of Afghani refuges. (09/26/01) The Union's 15 foreign ministers reiterate their support for action in Afghanistan. (10/08/01)

*FRANCE: U.S. President George W. Bush meets with President Jacques Chirac, who has pledged support, but says military action is only one possible route. (09/18/01) In a bilateral agreement with the United States, the French agree to place two warships in the Indian Ocean at the disposal of the coalition. The government also indicates these contributions could be bolstered by elements of the French Special Forces and air force currently stationed in Africa. (10/05/01). President Jacques Chirac pledges that French troops will participate in operations in Afghanistan. (10/07/01) Chirac says French reconnaissance aircraft began operations over Afghanistan and French Special Forces are ready to join operations in the country. French official also say the intelligence gathering ship Bougainville is also taking part in operations. (10/31/01)

GEORGIA: The government expresses support for the United States in its efforts to track down the perpetrators of the attack. (09/18/01) The Georgia Foreign Ministry announces that it will permit the use of its airspace for strikes on targets in Afghanistan. (10/03/01)

*GERMANY: Foreign Minister Joschka Fisher meets with Bush and U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell and may participate in military response. (09/18/01) German media reports that German special forces may take part in potential operations in the Gulf/Afghanistan area, causing a rift in the traditionally pacifist Green Party. (09/26/01) Germany says it is willing to commit forces to ongoing military operations in Afghanistan. In the wake of initial strikes, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder offers "unreserved backing" to the United States and declares that Germany will "make its contribution as soon as a concrete request comes and, of course, in line with what we are objectively able to do." (10/08/01)

GREECE: Pledges full support to U.S. and EU actions to combat terrorism. (09/18/01)

HUNGARY: Expresses support for U.S. fight against terrorism. (09/18/01) Hungary expresses its support of operations in Afghanistan. (10/08/01)

*ICELAND: Foreign Minister Halldor Asgrimsson offers the use of the airport at Keflavik for any U.S. operations. (09/18/01)

IRELAND: Prime Minister Bertie Ahern says the United States would be justified in retaliating, so long as the military actions fell within the UN definition of self-defense. He opposses large-scale attacks on Afghanistan. (09/18/01)

*ITALY: Willing to send troops. Promised "all-out battle against terrorist organizations." (09/18/01) Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi asserts that Western civilization is superior to that of Islam, and suggests that the West might choose to conquer Islamic civilization. These comments come at a time when the United States is attempting to gather Arab support for the coalition. (09/27/01) Italy joins the list of European powers offering troops if asked to do so. (10/08/01) Italian Defense Minister Antonio Martino says that various elements of the Italian Air Force, Navy, and Army, have been placed on standby. These forces await a formal U.S. request for deployment. Because these forces will be deployed in bilateral agreement with the United States rather through NATO, parliamentary approval will be required. (10/23/01)

LATVIA: Voices support for any U.S. response. (09/18/01)

*NATO: For the first time in its history, NATO invokes Article 5 of the alliance's treaty, which states "an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all." (09/19/01) New concerns arose over the legality of invoking the clause, however. (09/20/01) Opening Wednesday's session, NATO Secretary-General Lord Robertson calls the Sept. 11 suicide attacks by hijacked airliners "an affront to everything that this alliance stands for." Adding; "the savage acts which we saw in New York and Washington... represent a direct threat to international peace and security. (09/26/01) Robertson states that the bulk of the evidence collected with regard to the Sept. 11 attacks points to Osama bin Laden and the al Qaeda network. (09/27/01) Secretary-General Robertson says that NATO has been shown proof of Osama bin Laden's complicity in the Sept. 11 attacks. The statement removes any conditions that might have hampered the full implementation of Article 5. (10/02/01) Responding to a series of requests from the United States, NATO agrees to mobilize 17 AWACS surveillance planes for future operations. Additionally, Germany and Turkey say they will supply access to air bases and airspace. Spanish officials are studying similar requests. (10/05/01) In an effort to demonstrate resolve and solidarity for U.S. operations, NATO deploys its Standing Naval Force Mediterranean to the Eastern Mediterranean. (10/09/01) NATO sends five of its AWACS aircraft from Germany to the United States to supplement air defense operation. The move frees more sophisticated U.S. AWACS for use elsewhere. (10/10/01)

NETHERLANDS: Prime Minister Wim Kok lends full support to the fight against terrorism, but cautions the United States to be mindful of "democratic values." (09/18/01)

NORWAY: Backs United States actions through NATO. (09/19/01)

POLAND: President Aleksander Kwasniewski and Prime Minister Jerzy Buzek calls for an international effort in fighting terrorism, and pledges full support for NATO action. (09/18/01) Poland expresses its support for American and British operations. (10/08/01)

*PORTUGAL: Pledged full cooperation with the United States in all areas, including military support for retaliation. (09/18/01)

*RUSSIA: Deputy U.S. Secretary of State Richard Armitage goes to Moscow to discuss joint efforts and intelligence sharing. Bush talked several times with President Vladimir Putin. (09/18/01) Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov called for an international coalition to stand with the United States in a sustained attack on terrorism, but Moscow expressed reservations about the stationing of U.S. forces in the Central Asian region. (09/20/01) Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov says the U.S. could use military facilities "if the need arises." This is the first time Russia has publicly approved a U.S. military presence in former Soviet Central Asia and represents a shift in earlier policy. Putin says he would increase shipments of weapons and military equipment to the Northern Alliance. Russian officials say they have been working with Iran and India the Taliban's opponents. (09/26/01) Putin says that he is convinced of bin Laden's complicity in the attacks and does not need to see an American presentation of evidence. Additionally, gave backing to potential military action in Afghanistan. (10/02/01) Putin strongly endorses U.S. strikes in Afghanistan as justified and necessary. (10/08/01) Russia sends $45 million in weapons to the Northern Alliance, including tanks, armored fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers. (10/25/01) Quid: Russia seeks greater latitude and international acceptance for dealing with rebels in Chechnya. Moscow also seeks Western acknowledgment of, and deference, to Russia's role and influence in Central Asia and an understanding that U.S. bases in Central Asia are temporary. Moscow also may ask for concessions on U.S. missile defense plans and the Bush administration's plan to withdraw from Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. Putin seeks greater integration for Russia within European economic and security frameworks, such as the European Union and NATO.

SLOVAKIA: Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda voices support for the United States and NATO in all actions against terrorism. (09/18/01) The Slovak government declares that the United States is carrying out a targeted military attack on terrorism and expresses its unconditional support. Furthermore, the Republic is prepared to provide what cooperation it can to the United States and NATO. (10/10/01)

SLOVENIA: President Milan Kucan declares support for the fight against terrorism in a letter to Bush. (09/18/01)

*SPAIN: Spanish Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar expresses "solidarity with the United States." Anzar's office agreed to a request from the United States for use of its military bases. (09/20/01). Spain joins the list of European nations offering troops if asked to do so. (10/08/01)

SWEDEN: Foreign Minister Anna Lindh says Sweden does not wish to join NATO but is reviewing its neutrality. (09/18/01)

*TURKEY: Offers use of Incirlik air base for a possible military response. (09/18/01) Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit offers full cooperation. (09/21/01) Turkish officials finalize a decree allowing the deployment of troops abroad. (10/10/01) Reports indicate that Turkey is preparing between 50-300 Special Forces for service in Afghanistan. The addition, if it takes place, is seen as adding a valuable Islamic component to the coalition. (10/10/01) The United States asks Turkey to deploy a force of up to 50 troops in Afghanistan to train the elements of the Northern Alliance. (10/31/01) Quid: Turkey hopes for broader western support for its own conflict with Kurdish, leftist, and Islamic groups. Moreover, Turkey would like to receive financial support for its economic reform program threatened by the current economic slowdown.

YUGOSLAVIA: Leaders express support for a global fight against terrorism, but do not openly support a possible U.S. retaliation. (09/18/01)

General Quids: Efforts to build a coalition could provided an opportunity for those states who aspire to NATO membership such as the Baltic States, Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, an opportunity to prove their value to the alliance.


MIDDLE EAST/GULF STATES

BAHRAIN: The crown prince, Sheik Salman bin Hamad, promises to stand by the United States. The island nation is home base to the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet. (09/18/01)

CYPRUS: President Glafcos Clerides expresses support for action against terrorists. (09/18/01)

*EGYPT: President Hosni Mubarak lends assistance to the United States. (09/18/01) Mubarak urges Washington to moderate its response in order to save innocent lives and mitigate the reaction of the Muslim world. Calls on the United Nations to organize a convention against terrorism. Willing to share intelligence under longstanding agreements. (09/21/01) Mubarak issues a firm statement of support for U.S. strikes in Afghanistan, stating that Egypt supports "all measures taken by the United States to resist terrorism." Additionally, Mubarak suggests that the United States could help to end terrorism by avoiding civilian casualties and working to foster a Palestinian state. The statement was one of only a few public pronouncements of support provided by Arab governments. (10/09/01)

GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL (GCC): Meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, expresses "the willingness of its members to participate in any joint action that has clearly defined objectives. It is willing to enter into an alliance that enjoys the support of the international community to fight international terrorism and punish its perpetrators." The foreign ministers did not go beyond this statement to offer specifics about what kind of military or intelligence support they would offer. The six members couple their support of the coalition with condemnation of what they call terror acts by Israel. (09/23/01)

IRAN: President Khatami denounces attacks. (09/18/01) Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi says there should be no swift retaliation and calls on the United Nations to play a part. (09/21/01) President Khatami tells Prime Minister Tony Blair that he would back a UN led retaliatory action. Kharrazi reiterates that Iran would support measures take against international terrorism as long as it was based on an international response. (09/23/01) Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei launches a bitter attack on the United States, accusing it of being insincere and unqualified to lead a global drive against terrorism. Khamenei insisted Washington was trying to exploit the current crisis for its own purposes, and makes it clear that Iran would provide no help of any sort for an attack on Afghanistan. (09/26/01) Defense Minister Adm. Ali Shamkhani said that Iran would confront any U.S. warplanes that fly over its territory in order to strike targets in neighboring Afghanistan. (10/01/01) An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman declares that U.S. military strikes in Afghanistan are "unacceptable," and had been taken in the face of world public opinion. (10/08/01) In a secret message to the United States sent on Oct. 8, Iranian officials said that they would assist in the rescue of American military personnel should they need to escape from Afghanistan through Iran. (10/16/01)

*ISRAEL: Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has refused to make concessions to Palestinians to help United States recruit other Arab and Islamic countries. But U.S. sources say Israel is providing intelligence on Islamist militants. (09/18/01) Sharon warns that Israeli security will not be sacrificed in order to garner Arab support for a coalition against terrorism. Likening recent U.S. moves to the appeasement of Nazi Germany by the British prior to WWII, Sharon warns that the United States should not "try to appease the Arabs at our expense." (10/04/01) Sharon expresses "sorrow" over the public diplomatic dispute that arose in response to his comments of Oct. 4. He states that "President Bush decided very courageously to set the goal of eradicating terrorism," but did not offer any alternative interpretations of his earlier comments. Israel continues to provide intelligence support for American operations in the Afghan region. (10/06/01)

*JORDAN: King Abdullah II offers all possible assistance. (09/18/01) Abdullah reiterates expressions of support, but suggests that bloodshed might have been avoided if there had been greater progress in resolving the Arab-Israeli dispute. (09/27/01) Jordan helps to interdict attacks on Western embassies in Beirut by the Asbat al Ansar, a group reportedly linked to Osama bin Laden. (10/17/01) Quid: Abdullah will seek American assistance to modernize and further develop his country.

*KUWAIT: Defense Minister Sheik Jaber Mubarak Al Sabah offers all possible help to the United States. (09/18/01)

LEBANON: Prime Minister Rafik Hariri says he would support U.S. action against those proven to be perpetrators. The Hezbollah guerrilla group expresses regret for the loss of life, but warns against "taking advantage of the attacks to practice aggression and terrorism against those who committed aggression and terrorism." (09/19/01)

OMAN: Sultan Qaboos condemns the attack and promises to stand with the United States. The Foreign Ministry offers cooperation, without detailing the offer. (09/18/01)

PALESTINIAN AREAS: Arafat urges Arab states to join coalition. (09/18/01) The Palestinian Authority's security forces used deadly force against Palestinians in an attempt to suppress demonstrations in favor of Osama bin Laden. The move is seen as an effort by Yasir Arafat to confront extremists, shore up his position, and garner international credibility. (10/08/01)

QATAR: Foreign Minister Sheik Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al Thani voices willingness to cooperate with the United States, but has not said whether his country would join any anti-terrorism coalition. (09/18/01) Qatar disallows use of its airport for United States operations in Afghanistan. (10/10/01) Speaking in Tehran, the Qatari Foreign Minister condemns U.S. air strikes on Afghanistan, stating "we think the Afghan people should not be the victims of these attack." (10/24/01)

*SAUDI ARABIA: Foreign Minister Saud Faisal tells Powell and Bush that they want to be part of the global anti-terror coalition being formed. He states at the White House; "we will do everything that is in our capacity to fight this scourge of terrorism." (09/20/01) Saudis sever diplomatic relations with the Taliban on the grounds that the group "continues to use its lands to harbor, arm and encourage those criminals to continue with their terrorist activities." (09/25/01) Saudis signal that they will allow U.S. Planes and troops stationed in that country to participate in military action against Osama bin Laden. It also appears that the U.S.-built command center at Prince Sultan Air Base 70 miles outside Riyadh will also be available for U.S. operations. According to EU officials, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Faisal, indicated the Kingdoms willingness not only to track down those responsible for the events of Sept. 11, but to "exterminate the infrastructure that helps the terrorists." (09/28/01) Saudis announce that they will not allow their territory to be used as a base for strikes on Arabs or Muslims. (09/30/01) A senior Saudi diplomat states that his country has done all it can to freeze funds and end the flow of cash to al Qaeda and Osama bin Laden. (10/17/01)

SYRIA: President Bashar al-Assad sends President Bush a strong letter of support. (09/13/01) Foreign Minister Farouq al-Shara says the United Nations should play a role in any action against the attack. (09/21/01) Sources close to Syrian intelligence say Syria is willing to share intelligence and expertise with the United States. In a meeting with his German counterpart, Syrian Foreign Minister Farouk al-Sharaa expresses Syria's determination "to help the international effort to combat terrorism." However, Sharaa adds that Israeli occupation of Arab lands also represents terrorism. (10/02/01) Syrian and American intelligence officials meet in Damascus. The substance of the discussions is not disclosed. (10/29/01) Quid: In exchange for their help Syria would expect that the United States to refrain from attacks on Arab countries; the exclusion of Israeli participation in any response, and more progress and U.S. involvement in the Arab-Israeli conflict. Syria secured a seat on the United Nations Security Council on Oct. 8 without any vocal opposition from the United States. Furthermore, the United States does not include Hamas and Hezbollah, two organizations that receive Syrian support, as terrorist organizations capable of a "global reach."

*UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: Calls for NATO fight against terrorism. Begins an investigation to determine whether Marwan Alshehhi, an Emirati national, is the same man that German police have said is one of the 19 suspects in the attacks. (09/18/01) Severs diplomatic relations with the Taliban stating that the U.A.E. "does not believe that it is possible to continue to maintain diplomatic relations with a government that refuses to respond to the clear will of the international community." (09/22/01) Information Minister Sheik Abdullah bin Zaid al-Nahayan states that if Israeli killing of Palestinians continue, the United Arab Emirates will have to reconsider "our role in the coalition." (10/03/01)

YEMEN: Foreign Minister Abubakr al-Qirbi says his country would cooperate in fighting terrorism. Officials say Yemen would join an international coalition against terrorism, but only under the umbrella of an international organization such as the United Nations. (09/18/01)

General Quids: Moderate Arab states wish to see more progress toward a favorable resolution to the Arab-Israeli crisis. This would include a freeze of Israeli West Bank settlements. Additionally, moderate regimes will expect the U.S. to tailor its statements and move cautiously in order to mitigate the criticism emanating from more conservative and extreme segment of the regions population.


CENTRAL ASIA

AFGHANISTAN: Taliban leaders have refused to hand over the prime suspect, Osama bin Laden. (09/15/01) The country's top Islamic clerics suggested that the ruling Taliban militia instead should persuade bin Laden to leave the country. (09/20/01). The Taliban said its leading clerics had told Osama bin Laden that he should leave Afghanistan voluntarily. This is a shift from the Taliban's prior claim that it could not relay messages to bin Laden because it was unaware of his whereabouts. (09/27/01)

AZERBAIJAN: President Geidar Aliev offers help in tracking down the perpetrators of the attack. (09/18/01)

KAZAKSTAN: Officials have demonstrated uncertainty about U.S. retaliation, fearing it would destabilize the region and trigger a flow of refugees. (09/18/01) Officials grant airspace permission for military and humanitarian purposes. (10/08/01)

KYRGYZSTAN: Called for stronger action against terrorism, but has not made commitments to assist the United States (09/18/01). *TAJIKISTAN: Rules out the possibility of launching any Western-led attacks from its territory, which borders Afghanistan. Prime Minister Akil Akilov states he might consider a U.S. request to provide air corridors, but only with approval from Russia and the international community. (09/18/01) A day after the Department of Defense announced the Pentagon had begun deploying warplanes to Tajikistan, the Foreign Ministry denied having agreed to such a deployment. (09/21/01) Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov states the U.S. could use military facilities "if the need arises." This is the first time Russia has publicly approved a U.S. military presence in former Soviet Central Asia. (09/26/01) Officials grant airspace permission for military and humanitarian purposes. (10/08/01)

TURKMENISTAN: Offers support for the United States. However, President Saparmurat Niyazov has not promised assistance to the United States for staging strikes on Afghanistan. (09/18/01) Officials grant airspace permission for military and humanitarian purposes. (10/11/01)

*UZBEKISTAN: The Foreign Ministry states it is ready "to discuss any form of cooperation in the struggle against international terrorism in our region, including the deployment of U.S. forces." A day after the Pentagon announced it had begun deploying warplanes to Uzbekistan, officials deny having agreed to allow such a deployment. (09/18/01) Uzbek authorities confirm that U.S. military transport planes arrived at an airfield outside of Tashkent. The presence of U.S. forces in the country indicate an escalation of commitment by Uzbek President Islam Karimov. (09/27/01) In a joint press conference in Tashkent, Rumsfeld and Karimov indicate that a legal document is being prepared which will finalize mutual commitments regarding air space permission, intelligence sharing, and search and rescue operations. (10/05/01) Quid: Seeks credibility for its fight against the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and support for Uzbek factions in Afghanistan. Additionally, like other countries in the region, Uzbekistan will hope for increased U.S. economic assistance.

General Quids: In general, Central Asian states will hope for western engagement, economic aid, and investment in the region.


AFRICA

GHANA: Foreign Affairs Minister Hackman Owusu-Agyemang says his country will help track down the perpetrators. (09/18/01)

KENYA: President Daniel arap Moi says his country would join the international fight against terrorism because of the U.S. embassy bombing there in 1998. (09/18/01)

LIBERIA: Stated it was ready to join an international coalition against terrorism. (09/18/01)

LYBIA: Leader Muammar Qadhafi condemns the attacks, and calls on Muslim aid agencies to offer support for the victims. He says the United States had the right to take revenge, but voiced skepticism that retaliation would end the problem. (09/18/01)

MOZAMBIQUE: Expresses solidarity with the United States. President Joaquim Chissano calls for prudence before responding to the attacks. (09/18/01)

NIGERIA: President Olusegun Obasanjo promises support for efforts to bring the terrorists to justice. (09/18/01)

REPUBLIC OF CONGO: President Denis Sassou-Nguesso offers support to bring the terrorists to justice. (09/18/01)

SOUTH AFRICA: President Thabo Mbeki offers humanitarian support to help U.S. efforts. Foreign Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma warns against actions that would entail war against countries. (09/18/01)

SUDAN: President Omar el-Bashir's Islamic government was quick to condemn the attacks. Powell calls Sudanese Foreign Minister Osman Ismail Mustafa, who expresses willingness to cooperate to counter terrorism. (09/18/01) Sudan offers the U.S. the use of its military facilities for operations directed against bin Laden. Quid: The United States drops its opposition to lifting UN restrictions on foreign travel by Sudanese officials put in place five years ago. (09/28/01)

ZAMBIA: President Frederick Chiluba promises to "stand with the United States to fight international terrorism for preservation of Christian values and democracy." (09/18/01)

ZIMBABWE: President Robert Mugabe expresses solidarity with the United States in a letter to Bush. (09/18/01)


ASIA/PACIFIC

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN): Without referring to the controversial U.S. military campaign in Afghanistan, ASEAN leaders said in a statement, "We unequivocally condemn in the strongest terms the horrifying terrorist attacks and consider such acts as an attack against humanity and an assault on all of us." The group vowed to enhance the exchange of information on terrorists and their organizations. (11/04/01)

*AUSTRALIA: Prime Minister John Howard met with Bush and promised that he would do everything he could to help, particularly through intelligence and diplomacy, in order to bring to account those people who are responsible. The government invoked its defense treaty with the United States, clearing the way for military participation in any U.S. retaliation. (09/18/01) Howard said a squadron of 150 elite commandos (Special Air Forces), and air-to-air refueling aircraft has been put on standby to assist the United States in its response to the terrorist attacks. (10/04/01) Howard said he would commit 1,550 Australian military personnel, four fighter aircraft, three frigates and two refueling aircraft to the U.S. action in Afghanistan, and would have them deployed by mid-November. (10/18/010)

*BANGLADESH: The caretaker authority, headed by former chief justice Latifur Rahman, accepted a U.S. request to use its airspace, port and refueling facilities and access to sea. (09/18/01)

CAMBODIA: Prime Minister Hun Sen endorsed the U.S.-led coalition against terrorism, and said he would increase efforts to crack down on domestic terrorist groups. (10/03/01)

*CHINA: President Jiang Zemin said his country would cooperate with the United States on anti-terrorism activities. Bush met with Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan. Chinese terrorism experts are coming to Washington to share intelligence. A deputy foreign minister said China wanted to be consulted before Washington or NATO countries took any military action outside of their territories. (09/18/01) Minister of Public Security Jia Chunwang promised to share information on terrorists. (09/20/01) Zemin spoke with Bush and said he understood that the U.S.-led strikes in Afghanistan were aimed at terrorists, not civilians. China has expressed support for the fight against terrorism, but says any military action should go through the U.N. Security Council. The mainland also fears Islamic militancy in the northwest region, where the Uighur ethnic group seeks to form a separate state. (10/09/01) The government announced the closure of China's border with Afghanistan, barred foreigners from the border area, and stationed extra troops there. (10/14/01) Jiang welcomed Bush in Shanghai and reiterated China's support for the anti-terrorism war. Bush warned Jiang not to use the war as an excuse to persecute ethnic minorities. (10/18/01)

*INDIA: Offered facilities. Intelligence officials offered information to the United States about Islamic extremists in Afghanistan and Pakistan, including evidence on how bin Laden and other Muslim militant leaders were financing guerilla groups and running training camps. (09/16/01) Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) coalition declared support for the United States, but is divided on the extent of involvement. (09/19/01) The government said there were credible links between the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad group that led a suicide bomb attack in Kashmir on Oct. 1, and bin Laden's al Qaeda organization. (10/02/01) The government said it will supply 1 million tons of wheat, plus tents and blankets, to Afghanistan humanitarian effort. (10/14/01)
Quids: The United States lifted sanctions imposed on the country after it conducted nuclear tests in 1998. (09/22/01) Powell met with visiting Indian Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh, and condemned the suicide car bomb and gun attack on Parliament in Indian Kashmir that left 38 dead. The United States vowed to henceforth extend its fight against terrorism to Kashmir. (10/04/01) Rumsfeld met with Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes, and discussed possible sales of U.S. military equipment to India in return for its support in the anti-terrorism campaign. U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft has also recommended that two Pakistan-based Islamic militant groups active in anti-India insurgency, Lashkar-e Toiba and Jaish-I-Muhammad, be put on the U.S. list of terrorist organizations. Indian officials welcomed the move. (11/06/01)

INDONESIA: The most populated Muslim country in the world. Condemned attacks, but warned United States against blaming Islam. President Megawati Sukarnoputri has met with Bush and joined in support of the coalition despite much opposition. (09/19/01) About 1,000 protestors gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta and burned American flags in a show of opposition against any U.S. attacks on Afghanistan or other Islamic countries. Many diplomats prepared to leave the country. (09/27/01) Megawati condemned Indonesian groups that have threatened Americans in the country. A militant group demanded the expulsion of the U.S. ambassador. (10/03/01) Police fired warning shots and tear gas at anti-U.S. mobs in Jakarta as demonstrations continued. Following military strikes in Afghanistan, radical Muslims threatened to attack foreigners and embassies if the Indonesian government did not sever ties with the United States. (10/09/01)

*JAPAN: Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi expressed full cooperation with the United States, and is pushing for legislative changes that for the first time would allow Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to join in the effort overseas to provide medical assistance, deliver supplies and transportation. He presented a seven-point package of assistance to the United States. (09/20/01) Koizumi met with Bush and reiterated Japan's commitment to U.S. efforts. (09/25/01) The USS Kitty Hawk, an 81,123-tonne aircraft carrier, escorted by several Japanese destroyers, left the Yokosuka base to support U.S.-led anti-terrorist operations. (10/01/01) Five U.S. Navy warships left the port of Sasebo. (10/02/01) Koizumi's Cabinet endorsed a bill that allows Japan's military to give logistical support to any U.S. military retaliation. The government formally signed an agreement giving $40 million in assistance to Pakistan. Japan is also extending up to $120 million to the United Nations in response to its appeal to donors for emergency funding to help avert a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. (10/05/01) Six C-130H transport aircraft carrying some 140 Air and Ground SDF personnel, as well as relief supplies for refugees, left for Pakistan. (10/09/01) The government added 23 names to a list of individuals and organizations whose assets will frozen because of ties to terrorist groups. The National Police Agency deployed about 400 riot police to guard U.S. military facilities on Okinawa. (10/14/01) The House of Representatives approved two related anti-terrorism bills that allow Japan to provide logistical support in non-combat areas. For the first time, the SDF can take part in military action beyond areas surrounding Japan. The bills also allow the SDF to protect U.S. military facilities in Japan and give the coast guard the right to use weapons against suspicious ships in Japanese waters. (10/18/01) The Diet passed the Anti-Terrorism Special Measures Law, which enabling the SDF to lend non-combat support to the U.S. military campaign. The bill also allows amendments to the Self-Defense Forces Law and the Maritime Safety Agency Law. (10/29/01)

MALAYSIA: Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad warned against retaliatory strikes, saying the result would be more terror. (09/18/01) Mahathir said he supported U.S. efforts to hunt down terrorists, but would object to a war in Afghanistan in which innocent people could be killed. (09/28/01) Mahathir said ASEAN should support the fight against terrorism, but should not take a part in the U.S.-led war. (10/02/01) About 3,000 mostly Muslim demonstrators gathered in the capital chanting anti-U.S. slogans. (10/12/01)

NORTH KOREA: KCNA, the country's official news agency, expressed sympathy for the American people and said North Korea supported international participation in the fight against terrorism. However, it did not specify North Korea's role in that effort. (09/24/01) Responding to the U.S.-led strikes in Afghanistan, the Foreign Ministry said it opposed terrorism, but armed forces should not be used to aggravate regional stability. (10/09/01) State-run media in Pyongyang said North Korea was no longer interested in a dialogue with Washington because of Bush's "vicious, hostile policy" toward the country. (10/27/01) The government said it will ratify the 1999 UN treaty meant to block financing for terrorists. (10/30/01)

*PAKISTAN: President Gen. Pervez Musarraf has agreed to all U.S. requests to provide access to military facilities, airspace, and sharing of military intelligence. (09/18/01) Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar urged the Bush administration to put aside any notion of supporting Afghan opposition groups. He also warned the U.S. against attempts to install a new government in Kabul. (09/25/01) A team of revered Muslim clerics from Pakistan flew to Afghanistan to try to persuade Taliban leader Mullah Mohammad Omar to hand over bin Laden and avoid U.S. retaliation. (09/28/01) U.S. military and intelligence officials talked with the Pakistani government about improving the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons stockpile. (10/01/01) Violent anti-American demonstrations erupted in the cities of Quetta, Islamabad, Karachi and Peshawar. The rioters set fire to, among other places, the U.N. office in Quetta. Attempting to forestall the unrest, Musharraf announced that he expected the military attacks in Afghanistan to be "short" and "targeted." (10/08/01) Musharraf phoned Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee and urged Indian cooperation in the effort against terrorism. It was the first time the two leaders had spoken since their failed summit in July. (10/09/01) Musharraf gave permission for U.S. forces to begin operating from a commercial airport in Baluchistan province and a small military airfield in Sindh province. (10/10/01) Musharraf met with Powell in Islamabad and reconfirmed commitment to U.S. anti-terrorist efforts. (10/16/01) In a meeting with Rumsfeld, Musharraf warned of a "huge negative fallout" if the U.S. military campaign in Afghanistan continued during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. (11/03/01) Quids: The United States lifted sanctions imposed on the country after it conducted nuclear tests following those in India in 1998. (09/22/01) The U.S. signed an agreement giving Pakistan a rescheduling of its $379 million debt to the U.S. government. High-level U.S. Defense Department team arrived in Islamabad to hold talks with senior officials of Pakistan's Ministry of Defense and armed forces. (09/24/01)

*PHILIPPINES: All-out support including use of air and seaports. (09/18/01) President Arroyo said she will "go every step of the way" to back the United States, and offered intelligence, logistical help, the use of Philippine air space. She opened two American military bases-Clark and Subic Bay-and offered combat troops, pending government approval. (10/03/01) Manila officials said 13 members of the Abu Sayyaf group, which the United States has linked to extremists responsible for the Sept.11 attacks, have been captured in the Philippines. (10/04/01). Manila has called for a tri-nation anti-terrorist coalition with Malaysia and Indonesia to tighten border patrols, share intelligence and join in peacekeeping operations. (10/29/01) Quids: Five U.S. military advisers arrived in Zamboanga, joining about 25 U.S. troops who arrived the preceding week to train Philippine forces fighting the Abu Sayyaf rebel group, which is alleged to have ties to bin Laden. (10/24/01) A team of U.S. advisers arrived on the island of Basilan in the southern Philippines to train troops to be deployed against Abu Sayyaf who are holding two American hostages. (10/29/01)

SINGAPORE: The government expressed support for military strikes in Afghanistan. It announced that people holding passports from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Egypt and Pakistan will now have to apply for visas before coming to Singapore. (10/11/01)

*SOUTH KOREA: Foreign Minister Han Seung-soo met with Powell and pledged full cooperation. (09/18/01) The government announced decision to send troops and liaison officers as logistic support for U.S. military efforts. (09/24/01)

*TAIWAN: President Chen Shui-bian offered to "provide any necessary assistance" to the United States against terrorism. (09/18/01) The government offered to allow U.S. jets to use its airspace and to help fund relocation of Afghan refugees. (10/14/01)

*THAILAND: The government promised to exchange intelligence on terrorists and pledged support to the United States. (09/18/01)


THE AMERICAS

*ARGENTINA: Voiced full support for U.S. actions. (09/18/01) President Fernando De la Rua offered Argentine troops as part of any humanitarian effort. (10/14/01)

BOLIVIA: The government issued a statement offering support to the United States. (09/17/01)

BRAZIL: Proposed that the Organization of American States formalize support for the United States under a 1947 treaty that considers an armed attack on any member as an attack on all. Foreign Minister Celso Lafer said for now, his country's support was diplomatic and not military. (09/18/01)

*CANADA: Prime Minister Jean Chretien pledged support, but has not committed Canadian troops to any ground fighting. (09/18/01) Finance Minister Paul Martin said Canada had frozen the assets of groups identified by the United States as linked to terrorism. (09/26/01) The government announced it would contribute 2,000 military personnel, three transport aircraft, two maritime patrol aircraft, an elite commando group, two frigates, a destroyer, and a supply ship to the U.S.-led military operations. (10/08/01) The government announced a series of measures costing $165 million to tighten security at airports and along the U.S. border, and to prevent document fraud. (10/14/01)

CHILE: Expressed firm support for the United States. (09/18/01) The government donated $30,000 in humanitarian aid to Afghan refugees. (10/14/01)

CUBA: President Fidel Castro condemned the attacks and offered medical assistance to the United States. (09/18/01) However, the official Cuban government communiqué used harsh language to condemn expected military response, and urged Washington to seek a prudent solution to prevent war. (09/19/01)

ECUADOR: Foreign Minister Heinz Moeller said the police and army intelligence are investigating the possible presence of bin Laden's al Qaeda terrorist organization within the country. (09/18/01)

EL SALVADOR: President Francisco Flores promised collaboration with the United States. (09/18/01)

*GUATEMALA: President Alfonso Portillo said he supported the international fight against terrorism. (09/18/01) The Guatemalan military said it could offer 30 soldiers as part of a Central American contingent for humanitarian work in the battle against terror. (10/14/01)

HONDURAS: Officials expressed willingness to participate in fight against terrorism (09/18/01)

MEXICO: President Vincente Fox expressed support and said he is calling on other Latin American countries to help U.S. efforts. (09/18/01)

NICARAGUA: The government promised to lend whatever help was necessary to fight terrorism within the framework of the Inter-American Reciprocal Assistance Treaty, a mutual defense treaty for the Western Hemisphere. (09/18-01)

ORGANIZATION OF AMERICAN STATES (OAS): Met in Washington and invoked the 1947 Inter-American Self-Defense Treaty calling for the "common defense" of the hemisphere against outside threats. (09/19/01)

PANAMA: President Mireya Moscoso sent a message expressing support and solidarity to the United States. (09/18/01)

PERU: President Alejandro Toledo expressed support for the United States. Foreign Minister Diego Garcia Sayan called for an emergency meeting of the Organization of American States to adopt a resolution backing all measures in the fight against terrorism. (09/18/01)

*PORTUGAL: Pledged full cooperation with the United States in all areas, including military support for retaliation. (09/18/01)

URUGUAY: Foreign Secretary Didier Opertti said his country will "support the collective decisions." (09/18/01)

VENEZUELA: The government guaranteed oil supplies to the United States, increased security at oil installations and pledged aid for Afghan refugees. (10/14/01)


INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
(For NATO, OAS and ASEAN, see appropriate regions)

APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation): Despite differences in views regarding anti-terrorist military operations in Afghanistan (with Indonesia and Malaysia calling for military restraint), members of APEC produced a statement declaring unity in the fight against terrorism. The statement called for international cooperation and urged other nations to take action to choke off terrorist funds and secure the safety of civil aviation. (10/21/01)

GROUP OF SEVEN (G-7): The finance ministers of the G-7 nations met in Washington, DC and developed a Plan of Action that calls for all countries to freeze terrorist assets and establish information-sharing financial intelligence units. (10/06/01)

UNITED NATIONS: Secretary-General Kofi Annan said the United Nations can "ensure global legitimacy for the long-term response to terrorism" by providing legal framework for extradition and prosecution of perpetrators and the suppression of money laundering. (09/20/01) The Security Council unanimously adopted a comprehensive anti-terrorism resolution. It also established a Committee of the Council to monitor the resolution's implementation, and decided that all member states should prevent and suppress the financing of terrorism. (9/28/01) In a letter to the Security Council, John D. Negroponte, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said the United States reserved the right to carry out its military campaign against other countries harboring terrorists. He said the strikes underway in Afghanistan are acts of self-defense under article 51 of the U.N. Charter. U.N. officials interpreted the letter as indicating that the United States did not feel the need to seek U.N. endorsement of the military strikes against Afghanistan or against other countries. (10/08/01) The U.N. ordered member states to freeze assets of 27 organizations and individuals linked to Osama bin Laden. (10/10/01)
Quids: The United States agreed to pay back $582 million of the $862 million it owes in dues to the United Nations. (09/24/01)

Compiled by:

Reyko Huang
CDI Research Assistant

Dr. Michael Donovan
CDI Research Assistant
mdonovan@cdi.org

Standard Version

 

BACK TO THE TOP    TERRORISM PROJECT HOME    LINKS    CDI HOME

 
 
CENTER FOR DEFENSE INFORMATION
1779 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20036-2109
Ph: (202) 332-0600 · Fax: (202) 462-4559
info@cdi.org