Rodríguez Zapatero: "With the self-restraint required of us by history, let us enjoy, today, legitimate satisfaction at the victory of democracy, of law, of what is right".

This was made possible by the determination, in succession, of all of our democratic governments and their leaders - each and every one of them - to end the violence.

Let us recall, at this time, the work carried out by the various Interior Ministers and, in particular, those who have accompanied me in this final phase.

This outcome was made possible, of course, by the tenacious, effective actions of the members of the State Police Forces and of the Civil Guard, whose sacrifice and dedication to the welfare of the Spanish people has cost their own lives on so many occasions. The actions of the courts, of the intelligence services and of many more working for the common good have contributed to this final act.

It was also possible thanks to the help provided by France and its authorities, to whom we owe a perpetual debt of gratitude and solidarity. President Sarkozy's friendship with Spain has been a decisive factor, and I recognise this, here and now. This recognition is also due to the countries that over many years have given us their support and solidarity.

And it has been made possible, above all, by the steadiness and solidity of the Spanish people, guided by the unfailing indications of the rule of law, which now, definitively and unconditionally, has triumphed as the only possible model of coexistence.

Ours will be a democracy without terrorism, but not one without memory. The memory of the victims, of every one of the 829 people murdered and their families, and of so many wounded, who all suffered the unjust, abhorrent assault of terror, will remain with us forever. And it will accompany the future generations of Spaniards.

At this point, I am thinking, particularly, about the Basque people. I have the conviction that from now on, and at last, they will live as a society that is not bound by fear or intimidation; a truly free life, of coexistence in peace.

The unity of the democratic parties, Spanish and Basque, Basque and Spanish, has been decisive in achieving this end.

The Government and Parliament resulting from the forthcoming general election will have the responsibility of conducting this new phase, which must also respond to a jointly-felt commitment.

With the self-restraint required of us by history, let us enjoy, today, legitimate satisfaction at the victory of democracy, of law, of what is right. A satisfaction tinged with unforgettable memories of the pain caused by a violence that should never have occurred and which must never return".