Legacy of Charlie Hebdo attack victims is inspiration to all: John Kerry

Today marks the first anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo terror attack that left 17 people dead

On the first anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo terror attack in Paris that left 17 people dead, US Secretary of State John Kerry said the legacy of the victims endures as a challenge and inspiration to all.

"On the one-year anniversary of the January 7-9, 2015, attacks that took the lives of 17 people, we honour the victims of this tragedy and share the sadness of their loss," Kerry said in a statement yesterday.

"Their legacy endures as a challenge and inspiration to all of us. Charlie Hebdo continues to publish, and journalists around the world continue in their essential mission to tell the stories that people everywhere need to hear," he said.

Kerry said the attacks which were intended to sow fear and division instead brought people together, adding that the US and France would always stand together to tackle the most daunting challenges.

"We must remain committed to protect each other and renew our determination to turn this moment of profound loss into a lasting commitment," Kerry said

"No country knows better than France that freedom has a price, and that no rationale can justify attacks on innocent men, women, and children," he added.

The White House said the US stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of France as they confront the terror threat to their nation.

"It is certainly a sad thing to remember, but it is also a way to remember the resolve that the French people have shown through a difficult year. It certainly is an opportunity to remember, once again, that France is the oldest ally of the United States," White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest, said.

"The French people can know that the American people and its government is standing right there with them," he said.