VZCZCXRO7482
RR RUEHMA RUEHPA
DE RUEHFN #0337 1971533
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 151533Z JUL 08 ZDK
FM AMEMBASSY FREETOWN
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 2042
INFO RUEHZK/ECOWAS COLLECTIVE
UNCLAS FREETOWN 000337
SIPDIS
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL PGOV SL
SUBJECT: SIERRA LEONE EXPRESSES SYMPATHY RE: ISTANBUL ATTACK
1. (U) Following is text from a letter received by post on
July 10, from Minister Zainab Hawa Bangura to Secretary of
State Dr. Condoleezza Rice on the tragedy that occured at the
United States Consulate in Instabul, Turkey. Original will
be sent by pouch to AF/W desk officer for appropriate
transmittal.
2. (U) BEGIN TEXT: July 10, 2008. My Dear Sister, I have
learnt with shock and dismay, that several unknown armed men
attacked the police post at the United States Consulate in
Istabul, Turkey, where three police officers and three
attackers died in a 15 minute gun battle outside the complex.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Sierra Leone,
and on my own personal behalf, I wish to extend my heartfelt
sympathy over the shock and impact this terrorist attack
would have caused on the American people, and the employees
of the Consulate. Once again, I wish to condemn in the
strongest possible terms, this terrorist attack, and to
inform you that the Government and people of the Republic of
Sierra Leone stand resolute with the Government and the
people of the United States of America in the global war on
terrorism. Please accept the assurances of my highest
consideration. END TEXT
PERRY