The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to the Family of author Vasco Graça Moura.

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

“I was deeply saddened when I was advised of the passing away of Vasco Graça Moura, one of the foremost Portuguese authors and one of the scholars that most contributed to the assertion and international prominence of our culture.

A widely recognized and prestigious poet and novelist, both amongst us and all over Europe, Graça Moura also translated into Portuguese several of the great Western authors, whose writings he enriched as few would be able.

His dynamism and creativity, when responsible for several institutions or as a Member of the European Parliament, were decisive features for the recognition of Portuguese culture in foreign parts.

In this time of mourning, I render my tribute to the scholar and active individuality, who bequeaths an indelible label in literature as well as in the democratic debate of ideas and in the defence of our culture.

On behalf of the Portuguese and in my own personal name, I address my deepest condolences the bereaved Family.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”