Text of Letter to Mrs. Abba Eban

The following is the text of a letter to Mrs. Abba Eban from Secretary of State Colin L. Powell expressing his condolences on the death of her husband, Abba Eban.

Begin text:

“Dear Mrs. Eban,

Let me extend my sincerest condolences and those of our nation on the loss of your husband, a great statesman, Abba Eban. Through a lifetime of service in the interests of Israel and of peace, Abba Eban epitomized the qualities that have made Israel great: a commitment to democratic values and morality, as well as tenacity in achieving the vision of the first generation of Israeli leaders. During his many years in the United States, in New York and in Washington, Abba Eban ably and eloquently represented his country and gained the admiration and respect of American officials and citizens alike.

As we join you and your family in mourning the loss of this great man, we can nonetheless find comfort in admiring his many achievements and hoping that his example will inspire others to advance the cause of peace.

Sincerely,
Colin L. Powell
Secretary of State"