“Australians will be feeling this too”: Jacinda Ardern’s message to Australia
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shared a message to Australians in the wake of the terror attacks in Christchurch.
She was asked during a press conference if she had a message for Australia. The 38-year-old responded saying that the attack won’t impact the relationship between Australia and New Zealand.
“We’re incredibly aware that Australians will be feeling that too,” she said.
“We have acknowledged that this person was not a New Zealand citizen. They did not grow up with this ideology here. They did come to us and bring this terrorist act with them.
“But we do not see that as a reflection of our relationship with Australia or its people. And so, I do draw that distinction. I think New Zealanders draw that distinction.”
Ardern also reflected on the “fantastic” support from Australian agencies and mentioned that she has been in contact with her Australian counterpart Scott Morrison since the attack.
One of the most touching moments from the conference was Ardern speaking about how some of the victims in the attack were Syrian refugees.
“I cannot tell you how gutting it is to know that a family came here for safety and refuge and they should have been safe here,” she said.
A two-minute silence is being held this Friday in memory of those who lost their lives in the attack. A memorial service is also planned.