OFFICIAL CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO THE PRESIDENT

UNCLAS ABIDJAN 000811


DEPARTMENT FOR S/ES-CR, S/ES-O, AND AF

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: OPDC PREL OVIP IV
SUBJECT: OFFICIAL CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO THE PRESIDENT
ELECT

REF: A. STATE 118192

B. ABIDJAN 802

C. ABIDJAN X


1. Embassy Abidjan received a message of congratulations to
the President Elect from Charles Konan Banny, former Prime
Minister of Cote d'Ivoire (2005-2007). Embassy will transmit
a hard copy of the message to the Department by diplomatic
pouch.


2. Embassy translation of the French language message
follows:

Begin Text.

Mister President,

It is a pleasant duty for me to extend to you my most
heartfelt congratulations for your brilliant election to the
highest office of the United States of America and to extend
to you my best wishes for success as you carry out your
future duties.

Your resounding success the evening of November 4, 2008
reflects both your exceptional qualities as a statesman and
the exemplary character of American democracy. It proves
that the American dream is not an illusion, and that it can
serve as a point of reference for all peoples who aspire to
greater justice and equality.

I am convinced that the entire world celebrated the American
elections because you were a candidate and that your
prospective victory could give rise to hope for legitimate
change not only in the United States of America, but also for
the advancement of international relations.

Will you accept, Mr. President, the assurances of my highest
consideration.

Charles Konan Banny

End Text.


NESBITT