Bali Bombing Unforgettable: Julia Gillard

Jimbaran (Antara Bali) - The memory of hundreds of innocent people killed in the Bali bombing ten years ago caused relatives crying and sobbing during the commemoration of the tragedy held here on Friday.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who attended the commemoration described the tragedy as unforgettable.

The tragedy left 202 people dead and 88 of them were Australians mostly tourists.

Gillard said it is time for the whole human beings to be united in the fights against terrorism in the world.

Bali has been one of the targets of terrorists after the attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC) in New York in September 2011, she recalled.

The commemoration, led by preacher Chaplain Whitley from Australia began at 08.20 local time with opening address by Bali Governor Made Mangku Pastika.

Pastika called for an end of violence in the name of religion saying "We are not condemning any religion but those who commit inhumanity in the name of religion," he said.

"We can`t forget the tragedy, but let us forgive so that we could continue with our life," he added.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa said the world is expected to use the momentum to strengthen tolerance and to improve understanding between different communities.

"We want to use this opportunity to pay homage to those who have gone and to say our highest appreciation for the Balinese and other people offering help to the victims ten years ago," Natalegawa said.

Survivors and relative of dead victims representing 22 countries lit the candle to mark the commemorations.

Former Australian prime minister John Howard, Australian opposition leader Tony Abbott, and Australian Ambassador Greg Moriarty and other Indonesian leaders were also present in the commemoration, which was ended with the laying of wreath led by Gillard.(*/T007)