SIERRA LEONE EXPRESSES SYMPATHY RE: ISTANBUL ATTACK

UNCLAS FREETOWN 000337 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL PGOV SL SUBJECT: SIERRA LEONE EXPRESSES SYMPATHY RE: ISTANBUL ATTACK ¶1. (U) Following is text from a letter received by post on July 10, from Minister Zainab Hawa Bangura to Secretary of State Dr. Condoleezza Rice on the tragedy that occured at the United States Consulate in Instabul, Turkey. Original will be sent by pouch to AF/W desk officer for appropriate transmittal. ¶2. (U) BEGIN TEXT: July 10, 2008. My Dear Sister, I have learnt with shock and dismay, that several unknown armed men attacked the police post at the United States Consulate in Istabul, Turkey, where three police officers and three attackers died in a 15 minute gun battle outside the complex. On behalf of the Government and the people of Sierra Leone, and on my own personal behalf, I wish to extend my heartfelt sympathy over the shock and impact this terrorist attack would have caused on the American people, and the employees of the Consulate. Once again, I wish to condemn in the strongest possible terms, this terrorist attack, and to inform you that the Government and people of the Republic of Sierra Leone stand resolute with the Government and the people of the United States of America in the global war on terrorism. Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration. END TEXT PERRY