MFA Press Release: Condolence Letters from acting President J Y Pillay to Czech President Vaclav Klaus and from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to Czech Prime Minister Petr Necas on the demise of former President Vaclav Havel, 20 December 2011

Condolence Letter from Acting President J Y Pillay

19 December 2011

His Excellency Mr Vaclav Klaus
President of the Czech Republic

Dear President Klaus

I was saddened to learn of the passing of the first President of the Czech Republic, Mr Vaclav Havel. On behalf of the people of Singapore, I would like to convey my deepest condolences through your good offices to his bereaved family and the people of the Czech Republic.

Mr Havel leaves behind a huge legacy. He was one of the principal architects of the "Velvet Revolution" and he presided over the early stages of the Czech Republic's transition into a democracy and an open economy. His many contributions will long be remembered, not only by the citizens of the Czech Republic but by people the world over.

Yours sincerely,

J Y PILLAY

Condolence Letter from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

20 December 2011

Dear Prime Minister Necas

I learnt with great sorrow about the demise of former President Vaclav Havel on 19 December 2011. On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Singapore, please accept my deepest condolences.

Mr Havel was a hero not just to Czech citizens but to many others in the world. His efforts to champion the cause of peace and freedom will continue to inspire many generations. Many of us in Singapore remember his State Visit in 1995, which was a landmark in Singapore-Czech Republic relations.

Our thoughts are with Mr Havel's family and the people of the Czech Republic during this period of mourning.

Yours sincerely,

LEE HSIEN LOONG
PRIME MINISTER

H.E. Mr Petr Necas
Prime Minister
Czech Republic