The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Myung-bak, on the passing away of former President Kim Dae-jung.

Following is the text of the message:

"Mister President

I was deeply distressed when I received the news of the passing away of the former President of the Korean Republic, Kim Dae-jung.

Kim Dae-jung will be remembered by all as the statesman who had an outstanding role in the History of Korea and, particularly, for his contribution to the establishment of democracy and the promotion of respect for human rights in the Country, as well as for his untiring efforts on behalf of peace in the Korean peninsula.

In this hour of mourning, I wish to address Your Excellency, on behalf of the people of Portugal and in my own personal name, our most sincere condolences, begging you to forward to the bereaved family the expression of our deepest regrets.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"