The President of the Government has sent to the President of South Africa a message of condolences on the death of Nelson Mandela on behalf of the Regional Government and the Azorean People, stressing that his life path will continue to inspire all those fighting for the values of freedom, dignity and democracy.

"His life path, marked by many obstacles, was built on the strength of belief and continues to inspire present and future generations. It is an example for all those who, in different parts of the world, are fighting for the same values of freedom, dignity and human rights," said the message sent by Vasco Cordeiro to Jacob Zuma.

According to the President of the Government, the political and public action of the late Head of State of South Africa was ruled by "the the determination and persistence, without forgetting reconciliation. It is an unparalleled example and a universal heritage that deserves greater recognition and admiration."

For these reasons, Vasco Cordeiro considered that Nelson Mandela is one of the greatest figures of our time and a leader whose charisma, forged in hardship, is still capable of mobilising the "admirable transformative power of ideals."