Mister President

It was with great regret that I received the news of the passing away of Gaston Thorn.

In this moment of sadness, I wish to address Your Excellency, on behalf of the people of Portugal and in my own personal name, our very deepest condolences.

Presiding to the destinies of the European Commission from 1981 to 1985, a time when Europe was in the midst of grave political, social and economic issues, where many raised queries regarding the European project, Gaston Thorn was able, with his vision and his labours, to decisively strengthen the roots which are today the base of the European Union.

At this time, I must also pay tribute to Gaston Thorn’s determining role in all the process that led to the adhesion of Portugal to the then European Economic Community.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva