The United States today marks nine years since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Prime Minister Vlad Filat sent a letter of condolence to the U.S. Ambassador in Chisinau Asif Chaudhry, and, through him, to the American people, Info-Prim Neo reports. According to the Government’s press office, the letter says that Moldova will continue to be near the United States and the international coalition against terrorism in building a new security environment based on common values. Vlad Filat expresses his admiration for the patriotism, courage and dedication shown by the Americans after the tragedy. According to AFP, the commemoration events are held amid controversy over plans for building an Islamic centre near Ground Zero and a threat to burn the Koran. The country has planned a series of events to honor the nearly 3,000 people killed in the coordinated assaults by al-Qaida hijackers. President Barack Obama will commemorate the anniversary Saturday at a Pentagon memorial service, while Vice President Joe Biden will attend a ceremony in New York. Four airliners were hijacked during the attacks in 2001. Two planes were crashed into the towers of New York's World Trade Centre (WTC) and one into the Pentagon, while the fourth crashed into a field in Pennsylvania, after passengers apparently fought back.