Late President Chavez, a strong advocate for developing world – Mahinda

The late President Hugo Chavez was a true son of Venezuela and as the leader was deeply committed to the welfare and development of his country, and a strong advocate for the developing world, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said.

The Venezuela President was a friend of Sri Lanka and played a significant role in further enhancing our bilateral relations, President Rajapaksa said in his message of his condolences.

Full text of the message:

His Excellency Nicolás Maduros Moros

Acting President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Excellency,

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of His Excellency Hugo Chavez Frias, President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela after a prolonged illness. The Government and people of Sri Lanka join me in conveying our deepest condolences to you, members of the bereaved family and the government and people of Venezuela . The late President was a true son of Venezuela and as the leader was deeply committed to the welfare and development of his country, and a strong advocate for the developing world.

The late President Chavez was a friend of Sri Lanka and played a significant role in further enhancing our bilateral relations. I warmly recall my meetings with the late President and his expressions of friendship and support for my country.

At this difficult hour, our thoughts and prayers are with you, the family of the late President and the people of Venezuela . The Government and people of Sri Lanka together with me stand in solidarity, as your country mourns the passing away of your great leader.

Please accept Excellency, the assurances of my highest considerations.