Nations offer condolences over death of ex-President Noynoy Aquino

The United States and Germany joined the chorus of condolences over the death of former President Benigno Aquino III, who died Thursday.

"On behalf of the US Embassy, I offer our deepest condolences to former President Benigno Aquino III’s family and loved ones at this heartbreaking time.  We are saddened by President Aquino’s passing and will always be thankful for our partnership," US Embassy Charge d'Affaires John Law said in a statement on Twitter.

On the other hand, the Embassy of Germany called Aquino, 61, "a great friend," saying his leadership paved the way for stronger Philippines-Germany ties.

"The Federal Republic of Germany to the Philippines, with great sadness and sorrow, expresses its heartfelt condolences to the Filipino people and the family of the late former President of the Philippines Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III."

"As a great friend of Germany, his official state visit in the Federal Republic of Germany in September 2014 marked an important milestone in intensifying German-Philippine relations," an embassy statement said.

The Embassy of France, for its part, said Aquino "leaves a legacy of leadership and reform founded on democratic values, economic prosperity, and honesty."

The Department of Foreign Affairs praised the former President for elevating the country’s conduct of foreign relations during his term.

The Embassy of Switzerland likewise expressed its condolences to the Philippines for Aquino's death, saying relations between the two countries strengthened during his administration.

LOOK: Statement from Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines on the Death of Former President Benigno S. Aquino III @gmanews @gmapinoytv pic.twitter.com/R4WhTmcSTc

— JP Soriano (@jpsoriano) June 24, 2021

Aquino, the DFA said, "steered foreign policy towards a principled direction that earned international respect and esteem, and invigorated the foreign service with a collective sense of patriotism, commitment to service, and professionalism."

"He has left a remarkable legacy on our country’s foreign policy and national history," the DFA said in a statement. 

The United Nations delegation in the Philippines also sent its "heartfelt condolences" to the former president's family and friends.

“We join the Filipino people in honoring his contribution and services to the country," said UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez, in a statement. —LBG/KBK/NB, GMA News