The President of the Republic sent to his Indonesian counterpart, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, a message of condolences over the victims of the earthquake in Sumatra.

Following is the text of the message from the President of the Republic:

"Mister President,

I was deeply saddened with the news of the terrible effects of the earthquake which yesterday struck the Island of Sumatra.

In this hour of suffering and pain our thoughts rest with the families of the victims and with the Indonesian people to whom I want to convey, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, our feelings of deepest grief as well as our heartfelt solidarity.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"