Message of Condolence from the President of Kenya

(Aug 24, 2012)

Ambassador Sam K. Ongeri, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kenya met with Ato Hailemariam Desalegn, Acting Prime Minister of Ethiopia yesterday (August 23rd). Ambassador Ongeri brought a message of condolence message from the President of Kenya, Mwai Kibaki. The Foreign Minister reiterated the deep sorrow of the Government and the people of Kenya and said that they also greatly felt the loss experienced by the people and Government of Ethiopia. Ambassador Ongeri said President Kibaki and the people of Kenya had been shocked to hear of the death of Prime Minister Meles who had been instrumental in strengthening the relations between Kenya and Ethiopia. The Foreign Minister extends the support of the government and people of Kenya at this difficult time. He said that Kenya hoped to continue to pick up the Prime Minister’s legacy and continue to strengthen the deep relationship between the two countries and accomplish the work in progress between them. He asked the Acting Prime Minister to continue to ensure the continuation of the results already achieved and coordinate continuing efforts. Ambassador Ongeri expressed his confidence that the new leadership would carry on the vision of the late Prime Minister and ensure the transition would go smoothly. Acting Prime Minster Hailemariam thanked the Kenyan Foreign Minister for his support of Ethiopia at this time. He said the late Prime Minister Meles was a statesman and visionary; his death was a great loss for Ethiopia and Africa, but his legacy would continue. Ethiopia was committed to continue the policies and strategies set by Prime Minister Meles. Ato Hailemariam extended his thanks to the Government of Kenya on behalf of the government and people of Ethiopia, and he assured the Foreign Minister that Ethiopia was ready to continue working closely with Kenya to ensure that the achievements in Somalia and between Sudan and South Sudan would be maintained and expanded.