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