PRESIDENT FERNANDEZ SENDS CONDOLENCES FOR VIRGINIA

UNCLAS SANTO DOMINGO 000926 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL DR SUBJECT: PRESIDENT FERNANDEZ SENDS CONDOLENCES FOR VIRGINIA TECH TRAGEDY ¶1. President Leonel Fernandez expressed his condolences for the Virginia Tech tragedy to President Bush in an April 17 letter (received by the Embassy on April 19). An unofficial translation of the letter follows. ¶2. Begin translation. April 17, 2007 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Sir George Bush President of the United States The White House Dear President Bush: Please accept by fraternal greetings. I would like to express our deepest sympathies for the tragedy that cost the lives of 33 students at Virginia Tech University, a tragedy that has disheartened the people of the United States and the international community. In moments such as this, it is important that the family members of the victims and the community of the United States feel the moral support and solidarity expressed by the nations that appreciate the value of life and the respect of human rights. We hope that the families of the fallen students find consolation to alleviate the negative effects of this unfortunate event that has disheartened all of us. Cordially, Leonel Fernandez President of the Dominican Republic This report and extensive other material can be consulted on our SIPRNET site, http://www.state.sgov.gov/p/wha/santodomingo/ HERTELL