President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has extended a condolence message to her German counterpart, His Excellency Mr. Joachime Gauck, the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Germany, following the death of Mr. Hans-Dietrich Genscher, former Foreign Minister and Vice Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Former Foreign Minister and Vice Chancellor Genscher (March 21, 1927–March 31, 2016) was a German statesman who served a Minister of the Interior from 1969 to 1974, and as Foreign Minister and Vice Chancellor from 1974 to 1992 (except for a two-week break in 1982), making him the longest – serving occupant of either post. In 1991 he was chairman of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

According to a Foreign Ministry release, the Liberian leader said, “I extend heartfelt sympathy to you and, through you, to the Government and people of Germany, particularly to the bereaved family and dear ones.

She recalled with fond memories the bond of friendship that subsisted between the late Mr. Hans-Dietrich Genscher and Mr. C. Cecil Dennis, the late former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Liberia, which strengthened the ties of friendship and reinforced the collaboration between both countries.

“We also recall with appreciation the pivotal role and invaluable financial contribution from the Federal Government to Liberia toward the hosting of the 16^th OAU Summit in Monrovia, in July 1979,” President Sireaf indicated.

President Sirleaf said, at the time of national mourning, pleased be assured of Liberia’s empathy with the people of the German federation; and wished that they will receive divine consolation.