ECOWAS Condoles With Cape Verde Over Death of First President, Aristides Maria Pereira

24 September 2011
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Economic Community of West African States (Abuja)
press release

Abuja — The President of the ECOWAS Commission, His Excellency James Victor Gbeho, sent a message of condolence to the Government and people of Cape Verde on the passing away of their First President, His Excellency, Aristides Maria Pereira, on 21st September 2011.

Below is the message: "It was with deep regret and a great sense of loss that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) learnt about the passing away of H.E. Aristides Maria Pereira, the first President of the Republic of Cape Verde, which sad event occurred on 21st September 2011.

ECOWAS fondly remembers the heroic role played by Mr. Pereira in the liberation struggle against Portuguese colonialism, leading to the emergence in 1975 of the new State of Cape Verde, which he served as President with dedication, distinction and vision until 1991.

While in office, Mr. Pereira was instrumental in laying the foundations of the vibrant and viable democratic and economic path that Cape Verde continues to follow today, and which has offered West Africa a sound development model. He also led the country into the nascent ECOWAS in 1975.

ECOWAS wishes to convey its deep-felt condolences to the Government and people of Cape Verde, and to the family he left behind, for the irreparable loss sustained.

It is the conviction of ECOWAS that his exemplary life and works will continue to inspire generations to come, both in Cape Verde and in West Africa, on to greater heights. May his soul rest in eternal peace".

Read the original article on Ecowas.

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