Passing of Bissau-Guinean President Malam Bacai Sanha

WASHINGTON, January 11, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Statement by Victoria Nuland, Spokesperson

The U.S. Department of State offers its condolences to the family of President Sanha, and especially to the people of Guinea-Bissau, on his passing.

The United States remains a longstanding friend of the Bissau-Guinean people, and we will continue to support their aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity.

We are pleased that the government of Guinea-Bissau and its military recently worked well together in addressing an internal threat to democratic governance. We look forward to collaborating with the international community and working with Acting-President Pereira to arrange timely elections.