Mister President, Dear Friend,

I was deeply shocked and dejected when being told of the tragic accident occurred today with an aircraft in Mbanza Congo, Province of Zaire. 

In this hour of mourning, I wish to extend to Your Excellency and to the families of the victims of this accident, on behalf of the people of Portugal and in my own personal name, our deepest regrets and the expression of our most sincere condolences and solidarity.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva