Letter of condolences from President Donald Tusk to António Costa, Prime Minister of Portugal on the passing of Mário Soares

Source: European Council i, published on Sunday, January 8 2017.

Dear Prime Minister,

I was deeply saddened of learning of Mário Soares i's passing.

I would like to convey to Mr Soares's family, to President Rebelo de Sousa and to you my condolences, as we mourn his loss and reflect upon his achievements and political life.

I remember the major role that Mário Soares played in consolidating the Portuguese democracy - as the first constitutionally elected Prime Minister and as President of Republic - and in championing the Portuguese accession to the European Communities.