Third Way Statement Commemorating the 20th Anniversary of 9/11

WASHINGTON — Third Way released the following statement from Valerie Shen, Vice President for National Security:

"Today we mark the solemn 20^th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack in American history. We remember the thousands of innocent lives that were lost on September 11, 2001, and honor all those who fought and sacrificed over two decades to protect our nation from further attacks. 9/11 was a deeply traumatic and transformational moment – for our national security and law enforcement institutions and a generation who grew up with the horrific images from that day seared into our minds. The resulting wars, the mistakes that led to our conflict in Iraq and their ramifications will reverberate across the world for many years.

"Twenty years after the War on Terror began, the U.S. has ended its “forever war” in Afghanistan. It is our hope that forever wars are a thing of the past. But as we close this chapter, the U.S. faces the unprecedented, complex national security challenge of China’s growing global power and influence. China, Russia, and other authoritarian governments have only intensified their efforts to undermine democracy at home and with our strategic allies. Cybersecurity is now key to both national and economic security, with relentless cyber attacks from state and non-state actors alike. None of this will be easy, but we believe comprehensive strategies, innovative solutions, and bold action will be pillars in combating the top threats of the 21^st century without wars, without loss of life, and without massive deployments."