New Delhi
December 27, 2007

I heard with shock and horror of the death of Mrs. Benazir Bhutto. Mrs.Bhutto was a brave and outstanding woman leader of the sub-continent. That she should fall to a barbarous terrorist attack is particularly tragic, and should strengthen our resolve to fight this scourge.

Mrs. Bhutto’s contributions to democracy, to the improvement of India-Pakistan relations, and to the restoration of normalcy within Pakistan will be an inspiration.

My heart-felt condolences go to her immediate family, members of her party and the people of Pakistan. Our hopes and prayers are with them in this hour of loss.