International community pays tribute to S R Nathan
(Associated Press file photo)
From neighbouring Malaysia to the USA, UK to New Zealand, leaders, diplomats and even Valencia Football Club have paid tribute to the late President S R Nathan, who passed away on Monday night (22 Aug).
Most of Nathan’s civil service career was served as a foreign diplomat in various countries.
Here are some of the tributes from the international community:
Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Razak:
“My deepest condolences to the family of former Singapore President S R Nathan and the people of Singapore.”
US State Department Spokesman Mark Toner:
“President Nathan was a life-long civil servant whose career spanned all five decades of the US-Singapore relationship, including six years as Singapore’s Ambassador to the United States… We extend our deepest condolences to President Nathan’s family and to the people of Singapore.”
British High Commissioner to Singapore Scott Wightman:
“Mr Nathan served Singapore and its people selflessly. I offer my deepest sympathy to his family and to the country.”
New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Singapore Jonathan Austin:
“My deepest sympathies to the family of Mr Nathan. He was a true patriot who served Singapore with distinction.”
The Mongolian Embassy:
“Our deepest condolences to the family of former President SR Nathan and the people of Singapore.”
The French Embassy:
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Singaporean people and government following the passing of former President S R Nathan.”
Sri Lanka Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokeswoman Mahishini Colonne:
“Our deepest condolences to the people of Singapore & the family of diplomat and former President S R Nathan.”
High Commission of India in Singapore:
“Deeply saddened at the passing away of HE Mr S R Nathan, former President of Singapore. Heartfelt condolences to Mrs Nathan and the bereaved family, and to the people of Singapore.”
Valencia Football Club:
“Our deepest condolences to the people of Singapore on the passing of your former President, S R Nathan. He had dedicated much of his life to improving the lives of ordinary Singaporeans. Our thoughts are especially with the late Mr Nathan’s family and loved ones during this difficult period.“
