Message sent to Presidents Mitterrand, Pertini, Karamanlis; Chancellor Schmidt, Prime Ministers Trudeau, Thatcher, Suzuki, and General Evren.
I know you share my sense of horror and deep grief at the news of President Sadat’s assassination. His bold leadership, his vision of peace, his courage in maintaining a policy course in the face of opposition are all qualities that will be sorely missed. [end p1]
From all present indications, Vice President Mubarak and his key advisors have the situation under solid control and there seems a good prospect that a smooth succession will be managed. The United States plans to do everything possible to assist and support the Egyptian Government in the period of transition it now faces. In both our actions and statements we will be stressing the continuity of strong US-Egyptian relations and our continued determination to pursue the peace process.
We can be sure the Middle East will abound with rumors about the implications of the change in leadership in Cairo for Egypt’s policies. I believe we have a mutual interest in dampening down this speculation and in reinforcing the elements of stability in the area while the new leadership in Cairo is established in accordance with Egypt’s constitutional processes. I know you will join me in supporting Egypt as its news leaders work to preserve and advance President Sadat’s policies of peace, stability, and friendship for the West.
Sincerely
Ronald Reagan