MFA Press Statement: Condolence Letters from Singapore Leaders on the Shooting Incidents in Christchurch, New Zealand, 15 March 2019

President Halimah Yacob has written to Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Patsy Reddy, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has written to Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern, and Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan has written to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand Winston Peters, to convey condolences on the shooting incidents in Christchurch, New Zealand on 15 March 2019. The text of the letters are appended.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

15 MARCH 2019

Letter from President Halimah Yacob to Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Patsy Reddy

15 March 2019

The Right Honourable Dame Patsy Reddy

Governor-General

New Zealand

Your Excellency,

               I was appalled to learn of the attacks on Masjid Al Noor and Linwood Masjid in Christchurch on 15 March 2019. On behalf of the people of Singapore, I convey our deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the victims, and wish those injured a swift recovery.

Singapore strongly condemns this senseless act of violence against innocent civilians at places of worship, and reaffirms our solidarity with New Zealand in the fight against terrorism.

Our thoughts and prayers are with New Zealand during this difficult time.

Yours sincerely,

HALIMAH YACOB

Letter from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern

15 March 2019

Dear Prime Minister Ardern,

I was shocked to learn of the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch on 15 March 2019.Precious, innocent lives were lost, and many were injured. On behalf of the Government of Singapore, I would like to convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the victims and the people of New Zealand.

Singapore strongly condemns this vicious and mindless act of terror.This heinous act is an attempt to spread fear and hatred. We must not allow such acts to divide our societies.Singapore stands in solidarity with New Zealand in the fight against terrorism. I am confident that under your leadership, New Zealand will stay resilient and united during this difficult time.

Yours sincerely,

LEE HSIEN LOONG

The Right Honourable Jacinda Ardern

Prime Minister

New Zealand

Letter from Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand Winston Peters

15 March 2019

The Right Honourable Winston Peters

Deputy Prime Minister

Minister of Foreign Affairs

Minister of State Owned Enterprises

Minister of Racing

Dear Deputy Prime Minister,

I was shocked to learn of the terrorist attacks in Christchurch on 15 March 2019.

This was an unforgivable act of violence that goes against the principles of harmony and tolerance. Singapore stands together with New Zealand during this difficult time.I am confident that the New Zealand government will deal decisively with the situation.

Yours sincerely

DR VIVIAN BALAKRISHNAN