ANKARA, 18 January 2012: Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has condoled over the death of late Rauf Denktaş. In his condolence message addressed to the Prime Minister of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) H.E. Mr. Irsen Kucuk, the Pakistani Prime Minister said:“Please accept, on behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, our deep condolences over the passing away of H.E. Mr. Rauf Denktaş, the first President of the TRNC. The death of the President Denktaş marks an end to an illustrious political career, spanned over half a century, of dedicated service for the rights of the Turkish Cypriot people. He will be long remembered as a great patriot and an inspirational leader. Our prayers also go out to the family of Mr. Denktaş in this hour of great personal bereavement. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
The Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkey H.E. Muhammad Haroon Shaukat represented Pakistan in the funeral services at Lefkosa, TRNC.