President Girma Wolde-Giorgis has expressed great shock upon learning the sudden death of H.E. Dr. John Garang, First Vice-President of the Republic of the Sudan and the Leader of the SPLM/A. In a message of condolence he sent to Sudanese President Omer Hassen Al Bashir, the Ethiopian President expressed his heart felt sympathy to the people of the Sudan and to the bereaved family.

Prime Minister Meles Zenawi also expressed deep sorrow upon hearing the sad news of the tragic and untimely death of Dr Garang. Meles expressed his "heart felt sympathy and condolence" to the Sudanese President, and through him, to the people of the Sudan and the bereaved family. Meles also assured the President and the Sudanese people that Ethiopia will remain by their side "at this difficult and trying time."

ENDS