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PRIME MINI lp L61
FOR MEDIA 22 MAY 1991
I was deeply shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news of
Rajiv Gandhi's assassination. Rajiv Gandhi had already
given much to his country as Prime Minister and as an
opposition leader. But his murder is particularly sad and
wasteful because of his youth, and the continuing.
contribution which he was in a position to make to India and
to the wider world.
I worked closely with Rajiv, particularly in the
Commonwealth, where I valued greatly his insights and
cooperation on issues such as South Africa.
Australians have particular reason to remember his
commitment to our bilateral relationship, of which he spoke
again only w~ eeks before his death. That commitment was
demonstrated during his visit to Australia in 1986 and in
the warm reception we received when Hazel and I visited
India in 1989.
Rajiv and his wife, Sonia, were close personal friends.
Hazel and I feel particularly the dreadful loss that his
wife and family are suffering.
My thoughts and best wishes go to those who must now guide
India through this crisis. India's remarkable democracy has
endured many challenges in the past. I am confident that
the people of India and their leaders will again demonstrate
their capacity to overcome the forces that are confronting
India's democracy and unity.
I have sent a message of condolence to Prime Minister
Chandra Shekhar, and Hazel and I have passed our personal
sympathy to Sonia Gandhi and her family.
The Government will be represented at the funeral by the
Foreign Minister, Senator Evans, and Hazel.
A copy of my message to Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar is
attached.
MESSAGE TO INDIAN PRIME MINISTER, MR CHANDRA SHEKHAR
I was appalled to learn this morning of the assassination of
Mr Rajiv Gandhi. At this moment of tragedy, on behalf of
the Australian Government and people, I would like to convey
to you and your fellow countrymen and women our heartfelt
sorrow. Rajiv Gandhi had to assume great responsibilities
unexpectedly and in difficult circumstances. He rose to the
challenge and made his own outstanding contribution to
Indian public life.
I came to know him personally as a friend, and respected and
valued him as a constructive colleague in Commonwealth
forums. The vitality of India's democracy has been an inspiration to
us all. I am confident that the democratic system in your
country will be strong enough to overcome this latest and
violent provocation.
Please convey my condolences to the Gandhi family, to your
Government and to Rajiv's colleagues and associates.