Based on two of our fundamental principles -- "that government should be of laws rather than of men" and "that earth's great treasure lies in human personality" -- I energetically condemn the abominable terrorist action perpetrated in Russia, a country affiliated to JCI.

JCI was created essentially as an organization that develops leaders who search for peace, who respect life and who value their fellow human beings. We cannot accept the use of force and violence for any purpose. The loss of hundreds of human beings -- adults and children -- caused by irresponsible people cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.

JCI Russia has as members hundreds of young leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals who proclaim our message of an ethical and consistent leadership to achieve a better social reality worldwide. When we see images of the tragedy shown by the media, we feel as if those children, those parents, representatives and teachers were our own relatives. We share their pain and their mourning.

From our hearts, fellow JCI members in Russia, please receive the best comfort we can express and our most sincere message of faith and hope.

Fernando Sanchez-Arias