‘It is a day that has tested us’

'Business as usual' ... Prime Minister Tony Abbott Source: Supplied

PRIME Minister Tony Abbott has spoken again about the Sydney hostage drama, describing it as "a difficult day".

"Yes it is a day that has tested us, (but) we have risen to the challenge," he said.

Mr Abbott said he had also received messages of support from other world leaders during the day.

MORE BREAK FREE: Hostages escape cafe siege in Sydney

SYDNEY SIEGE: What we know, what we don't

In an earlier press conference, Mr Abbott said it was not yet "known whether this is politically motivated" but admitted it looks to be.

"The whole point of politically motivated violence is to scare people out of being themselves," he said. "Australia is a peaceful, open, and generous society. Nothing should ever change that.

"And that's why I would urge all Australians today to go about their business as usual.

PM Tony Abbott says motivations are unknown, but there are indications that the Sydney siege could be politically motivated.

"There are people who would wish to do us harm.

"I can understand the concerns and anxieties of the Australian people at a time like this but our thoughts and prayers must above all go out to the individuals who are caught up in this.

"I can think of almost nothing more distressing, more terrifying than to be caught up in such a situation and our hearts go out to these people."

He encouraged Australians to report any suspicious behaviour — but to still go about their days.

"I would urge all Australians to go about their business as usual," he said.

"This is a very disturbing incident."

Opposition leader Bill Shorten says Australians are shocked but will not be shaken by the dramatic hostage situation in a Sydney cafe.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten described today is an "an incredibly difficult day for Sydney and Australia".

"Australians are shocked but we won't be shaken," Mr Shorten said from Melbourne.

"We face moments like this with resolute spirit.

"At times like this, it's more critical than ever that the Australian community be solid, stick together, be united."

Mr Shorten said he spoke to the Prime Minister about 11am.

"I reiterate the Opposition's complete support for the Government at this most difficult time and, again, I commend our law enforcement agencies for the work they are doing."

The government's National Security Committee of Cabinet met for briefings on the siege earlier this morning.

In a statement, Prime Minister Tony Abbott said he has also spoken with NSW Premier Mike Baird and "offered him all possible Commonwealth support and assistance".

City on lockdown ... A police officer with gun drawn in the Sydney CBD. Source: News Corp Australia

"This is obviously a deeply concerning incident but all Australians should be reassured that our law enforcement and security agencies are well trained and equipped and are responding in a thorough and professional manner," the Prime Minister said.

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said his thoughts and prayers are with the "innocent people" caught up in the Martin Place incident.

Heart of the city ... The Lindt Cafe is in the centre of Sydney's busy financial district. Source: News Corp Australia

"Our thoughts are also with their families who are seeing this incredibly distressing situation unfold, along with the rest of Australia," the Opposition Leader added in a statement.

"I have full confidence in the skill and professionalism of our police and security agencies.

"I have spoken to Prime Minister Tony Abbott this morning and offered him the Opposition's full support at this time.

"Australians can be assured that we are one when it comes to keeping Australians safe."

Terror beamed across the world ... This Islamic flag was held up against the cafe window by a hostage as Seven's The Morning Show was broadcast across the road. Source: Supplied

Anda sedang membaca artikel tentang

‘It is a day that has tested us’

Dengan url

http://segarasa.blogspot.com/2014/12/ait-is-day-that-has-tested-usa.html

Anda boleh menyebar luaskannya atau mengcopy paste-nya

‘It is a day that has tested us’

namun jangan lupa untuk meletakkan link

‘It is a day that has tested us’

sebagai sumbernya