Rousseff Marks 10th Anniversary of 9/11: Daily

By Anna Fitzpatrick, Contributing Reporter

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Around the globe people have begun marking the tenth anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center in New York. This weekend President Dilma Rousseff sent a message of condolence and support to American President Barack Obama.

Rousseff underlined the importance of Obama’s vision that “violent extremism must be combated” and offered sympathy to the nation from both Brazilians and the Brazilian government.

President Rousseff also noted the importance of democracy, respect for religious freedom and human rights and the promotion of economic development across the world were important olive branches in the reconciliation between states across the globe.

The message signals a closer relationship between Brazil and the United States since Rousseff came to office at the start of 2011. In his first trip to South America since taking office, Obama met with Rousseff in March 2011.

After recent strains between Brazil and the United States – in part because of Rousseff’s predecessor Lula’s stand on Iran’s nuclear program – both countries seem determined to patch up the relationship.

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