MFA Press Release: Passing of Dr Richard Freiherr von Weizsäcker, Former Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany, 2 February 2015

             President Tony Tan Keng Yam has conveyed a letter to Dr Joachim Gauck, Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany to express his condolences following the passing of former German President Dr Richard Freiherr von Weizsäcker on 31 January 2015.  The text of the letter is appended.  

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

2 FEBRUARY 2015

2 February 2015

His Excellency Dr Joachim Gauck

Federal President

Federal Republic of Germany

Dear President Gauck,

                   I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Richard Freiherr von Weizsäcker.  He was a historic figure who saw Germany through some of its most significant periods in history.  Many will remember his momentous speech on 8 May 1985, on the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II, in which he named 8 May 1945 a day of freedom for Germans. As the first Federal President of a unified Germany, he contributed greatly to ensuring national harmony and unity.  He was a beacon of strength in Germany and a wise leader who devoted his energies to the welfare of the German people.

On behalf of the people of the Republic of Singapore, I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the people of Germany and to the family of Dr von Weizsäcker on this great loss.

Yours sincerely,

TONY TAN KENG YAM