The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to the President of the United States of America, with respect to the death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy.

Following is the text of the message:

“Upon being advised of the sad news of the passing away of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, I wish to address Your Excellency, to the Kennedy family and to the people of America, on behalf of the people of Portugal and in my own personal name, our most sincere condolences.

A renowned Senator, respected and admired by his peers, with almost five decades of dedication to public service, Edward M. Kennedy was a cause sponsoring politician, an enthusiastic defender of individual liberties and of equal opportunities, and was associated to relevant legislative projects concerning issues of human rights, education and health, which benefited a number of American generations.

I well recall how amicable and constructive was the meeting we held in 1988, in Washington, as well as the friendship which he always showed towards Portugal, which is deserving of our deepest appreciation and due tribute.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva "