Hon John Banks QSO Mayor of Auckland City

8 June 2004

Mayor sends his condolences to America

Auckland City Mayor, Hon John Banks, has sent his condolences to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation today, which has opened an on-line condolence book (www.ronaldreaganmemorial.com) with messages to be shared with the late president’s wife and family.

“On behalf of the citizens of Auckland City, New Zealand, please accept our heartfelt sympathies at this time.

“President Reagan was a respected friend and ally to our country’s people. Many New Zealanders rightly view him as the greatest post-war president.

“I salute his refreshing optimism and up-beat attitude to right-wing politics. His role in ending the Cold War was second to none. Peace, freedom and democracy were everything to President Reagan. I always admired his humanity and enjoyed his sense of humour.

“Over the past decade he has shown much courage and dignity as he struggled with Alzheimer's.

“As a member of parliament during Mr Reagan’s presidency, I remember the close relationship he and our New Zealand prime minister of the day, the late Sir Robert Muldoon, enjoyed.

“During a visit by Sir Robert to Washington in February 1984, President Reagan spoke these words:

“The strong bonds between our two nations reflect our common values, shared history, and mutual interests. We are more than good friends.” “New Zealand will never forget President Reagan’s friendship and his enormous contribution in making our world a better place. God bless Ronald Reagan,” wrote Mr Banks.

The Mayor has also extended his sympathies to the American ambassador, Charles Swindells.

ENDS

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