President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent a message of condolence to His Excellency Nicolas Maduro, Vice President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela for the death of His Excellency, Hugo Chavez, the Venezuelan President.

President Chavez died on March 5, 2013 due to illness and about 30 world leaders are currently attending his funeral ceremony in the military academy in the capital Caracas where huge crowds of his supporters are gathered outside.

President Sirleaf in her condolence message to Vice President Maduro expressed deep sadness over the former President's death and on behalf of the Government and People of Liberia, extended to the Government and People of Venezuela heartfelt condolences for the irreparable loss of their beloved compatriot and President who she said will be remembered for his tireless efforts and commitment to the fight against poverty.

A Foreign Ministry release says the Liberian Leader also described the late President Chavez as a fierce champion of economic development and prosperity for the people of Venezuela. She then prayed for the Almighty God to heal the wounds caused by his death and to grant the people of Venezuela the fortitude to cope with this sad loss.

President Sirleaf also offered a special prayer for the Almighty God to grant solace and consolation to the late President's beloved wife and members of the grief-stricken family as well as the people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.