Aleksandr Lukashenko addresses the nation over the death of President Hugo Chavez

    Following the death of the Venezuela President Hugo Chavez, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko addressed the Belarusian people and representatives of the international community.

    “Our hearts are paralyzed with the sad news. The close, trusted friend, our brother, President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Hugo Chavez died.

    Without trying to conceal our tears, we grieve along with Venezuelan people crying over the tragic abrupt death of Hugo Chavez, one of the greatest statesman and leaders of our time, the great hero, the passionate patriot and the fighter for independence, the outstanding politician, the thinker and speaker, the exceptional strong man who loved life and who dedicated his life to the service of his country.

    Under the leadership of Hugo Chavez, the heir and successor of the noble cause led by Simon Bolivar, Venezuela got rid of the heavy and hateful burden of poverty and underdevelopment. It broke free from the political and economic suppression of the foreign countries. President Chavez firmly and strongly led his country to happiness and freedom. He was, and I am sure he will remain, in the hearts of millions of people, the true farther of the Venezuelan nation, the protector of the poor, the suppressed and the underprivileged. He will always be shining hope and the foundation of the democracy in the South American continent.

    Today we lost a close relative and a best friend, who passionately loved Belarus and always was there for us when we needed help. Our joint work together for the benefit of Belarus and Venezuela, warm and friendly relationship which we felt for each other will always remain the most treasured memories in my life.

    The name of President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Hugo Chavez is engraved in the book of our history with the golden letters and he and his deeds now became part of eternity.

    Today, in this hour of sorrow and pain, we express our deepest condolences to the relatives and close ones of Hugo Chavez, to all people of Venezuela. In the name of the memory of the great leader, we solemnly promise to execute and accomplish our joint projects and plans, to continue the policy of friendship and mutual assistance, to do everything to further strengthen and develop our collaboration for the benefit of our countries.

    Rest in peace, our friend and brother, Hugo Chavez. Your cause will live for ever.”