The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to his Czech counterpart, Vaclav Klaus, upon the passing away of Vaclav Havel, former President of the Czech Republic.

Following is the text of the message of President Aníbal Cavaco Silva:

“Mister President,

I was very distressed with the news of the passing away of Vaclav Havel. I want, on behalf of the people of Portugal and in my own personal name, to address Your Excellency, the People of the Czech Republic and the bereaved family, our feelings of deepest regret.

Vaclav Havel bequeaths us a great legacy of humanism, political courage and intellectual brilliance. At a time when Europe faces such immense challenges, we still retain his extraordinary drive and his confidence in the building of a Europe based on freedom and on equality amongst States and citizens.

In this moment of mourning the Portuguese join all those that recall, with respect and admiration, the great human being and example to all of us that was Vaclav Havel.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”