Sirisena, Ranil express condolences over demise of former US President George H.W Bush

President Maithripala Sirisena and UNP leader have Ranil Wickremesinghe have expressed their condolences over the demise of former American President George H W Bush.

In a letter addressed to his son George W. Bush, President Sirisena said the former US President would be remembered by Sri Lankans for his restoration efforts during the aftermath of the tsunami which struck the island nation in 2004.

"The kindness he showed at a time of great despair, will always be treasured by all those who interacted with him" the letter said.

President Sirisena also wrote to his US counterpart Donald Trump and conveyed his deepest condolences to the Americans.

"On behalf of a grateful nation, I convey to you and to the people of the United States of America, our deepest condolences at this time of national mourning" the President said.

Meanwhile, UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe also expressed his condolences to the family of the former President.

Mr. Wickremesinghe expressed similar sentiments of President Sirisena while thanking the former US President for his invaluable restoration efforts following the tragic tsunami in 2004.

The UNP leader hailed George H.W. Bush as "an extraordinary leader" whose "life had been dedicated wholeheartedly to public service".

The letter also went on to note the instance during which President Bush had visited the child survivors of the Tsunami and offered them solace and inspiration when they were suffering from deep anguish.