New york: Representatives of the Diplomatic Community accredited to the United Nations in New York continue to pay tribute to the memory of the former Vice-President of Angola, Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, who passed away on December 18.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the Book of Condolences has been open since Monday at the facilities of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Angola to the United Nations. Diplomats from various Member States have been highlighting the political career and public service rendered by Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos to the Angolan Nation, as well as his contribution to the national liberation struggle.

The Charg© d’Affaires of the Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations, Lidia Nabais, emphasized his historic and committed action in the democratic consolidation of Angola, and his significant contribution to the country’s progress and international affirmation. She noted that these contributions are significant political legacies of his leadership.

Lidia Nabais also highlighted his humane treatment and high sense of justice, qualities that, she said, keep his memory alive in the hearts of the Angolan people, whom he served with selflessness and responsibility in the high public and political functions he held.

The Permanent Representative of Angola to the United Nations, Francisco Jos© da Cruz, described Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos as an engaged nationalist, a politician of compromises and consensus, deeply dedicated to the cause of reconciliation and harmony among Angolans. He noted that the honoree’s trajectory is intertwined with the contemporary history of Angola, given his determination and active participation in the most decisive moments that marked the country’s path since National Independence.

Francisco Jos© da Cruz also highlighted that Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos was a fighter for freedom and a defender of order and security, qualities that formed the basis for his appointment to positions of high responsibility within the state apparatus.

Representatives from Saudi Arabia, Austria, Cyprus, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, and Zambia have signed the Book of Condolences in person. Additionally, condolences were received electronically from Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Serbia, Switzerland, and Timor-Leste. The Book of Condolences remains open until Wednesday.