Mr Colin Powell
Secretary of State
Department of State
Washington D. C.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Dear Secretary of State
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is shocked and saddened at the tragic death of the seven astronauts on board the space shuttle “Columbia” on 1 February 2003.
We share your grief and that of the families and friends of those pioneers who had passionately committed themselves to advancing humanity’s discovery of the third frontier for the benefit of us all.
On behalf of the entire Caribbean Community, I wish to convey through you the attached message of condolence to the Government and people of the United States as well as to the families, friends and colleagues of those who perished.
Please accept, Mr Secretary of State, the assurances of my highest consideration.
Julian R. Hunte, OBE
Minister of External Affairs, International Trade and Civil Aviation of Saint Lucia and
Chairman of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCE FROM THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON THE TRAGIC LOSS OF LIFE IN THE SPACE SHUTTLE DISASTER
“The Caribbean Community is greatly saddened at the tragic loss of life which resulted when the space shuttle Columbia disintegrated towards the end of its mission on 1 February 2003.
The Community salutes the courage, professionalism and pioneering spirit of the young women and men who embarked on that mission. We are convinced that such an unexpected and disastrous accident will not daunt the determination to forge new frontiers but will serve as an inspiration to those who remain to carry on the work to which these astronauts were committed.
The Community wishes to extend its deepest sympathy to the Governments and Peoples of the United States and Israel and, in particular, to the grieving families, friends and colleagues of the astronauts on their tragic loss.”
