Singapore President, PM express shock over Bhutto's assassination

Singapore, Dec 28 (UNI) Singapore President S R Nathan and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong today sent letters of condolence to Pakistan, expressing shock and grief over the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in Rawalpindi yesterday.

In a letter to Bhutto's husband Ali Asif Zardari, Mr Nathan said he was shocked and grieved by the tragic news of Bhutto's assassination.

''My prayers and deepest condolences go out to you and your three children for the loss of a beloved wife and mother,''he said, adding that Bhutto had served Pakistan with conviction and courage.

Prime Minister Lee also sent a letter of condolence to Mr Zardari, saying Bhutto's death was a tragedy for Pakistan and its people.

''Benazir Bhutto was a courageous woman who remained resolute in her political convinction and sense of mission, despite continued threats to her life, including a recent assassination attempt in October this year,'' Mr Lee said.

''We will remember and honour Bhutto for her indomitable spirit, her devotion to Pakistan, and the ultimate sacrifice she made,'' he added.

The Prime Minister also sent a letter of condolence to Pakistan President Perves Musharraf, saying his thoughts were with the people of Pakistan on the dark day, which had ended the life of Bhutto.

''This tragedy reminds us again of the menace that terrorism poses to Pakistan and to all civilised societies. The terrorists are doing their utmost to derail the electoral process in Pakistan and undermine the country's stability,'' he said, adding that the perpetrators of this heinous act must be swiftly brought to justice.

Singapore's Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew also sent a letter of condolence to Mr Zardari.

UNI