Statement by President von der Leyen on the occasion of the commemoration of the Paris attacks of 13 November 2015

On 13 November 2015, ten years ago, the heart was ripped out of Paris.

That evening, people going about their normal business – sitting outside cafes, attending a concert – had their lives brutally taken away.

Ten years on we remember.

We remember the 132 victims, their faces, their stories cut short.

We think of all those who survived and those who still bear the scars, visible or invisible, of that terrible night.

We also hold in our thoughts their families, loved ones and all those who, for the past ten years, have been carrying the overwhelming weight of mourning them.

But we also remember Frances response, that of a nation unbowed by grief.

On the place de la République, crowds gathered in remembrance, creating a spirit of solidarity.

That evening, lives were stolen. It was an attack on our values – of freedom, peace and tolerance.

The joy of being together.

Values which have shaped France.
Values on which Europe prides itself.

Today, France mourns.

And we mourn with her.

Paris was wounded, but Paris lives on.

Fluctuat nec mergitur - Rocked by the waves, but she does not sink.