Secretary Clinton at the Polish Embassy

In the wake of the tragic plane crash yesterday that killed the President of Poland, Lech Kaczynski, along with more than 90 other Polish leaders and diginitaries, Secretary Clinton visited the Polish Embassy this evening to sign the book of condolences in the name of the American people.

Here are her remarks.

Signing of the Condolence Book at the Embassy of Poland

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

April 11, 2010

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Ambassador, I wish to convey on behalf of President Obama and the American people our deepest condolences to the government and people of Poland during this painful and tragic time in Polish history. But I could not agree with you more, in what you’ve said about the resiliency and the strength of the Polish people and Poland’s democracy.

There is no doubt in my mind that Poland will continue in moving forward into a better future despite these unimaginable losses that have been suffered.

It is very difficult at times like this to find the words to say. They are all inadequate. But I have great confidence in the future of Poland. Those who were lost, as the ambassador said, were many of the leading figures and the strong stalwart supporters of the solidarity movement that led to Poland’s return to freedom. They leave behind a great legacy, and a legacy that will live forever.

So Mr. Ambassador, we Americans stand with you now and forever. Not only the many proud Polish Americans who grieve with you today, but every American who admires what Poland has built, admires what Poland stands for, admires the Polish people. And we say with great conviction that the United States and Poland have much work to do together to build that future that the people on that plane gave their lives for.

Thank you all very much.