Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has conveyed a letter to Prime Minister of Australia Tony Abbott on the hostage incident in Sydney. Text of the letter is appended below.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
16 DECEMBER 2014
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16 December 2014
Dear Prime Minister Abbott,
I have followed news of the hostage incident in Sydney with great concern. The hostage taker has committed an abominable crime, invoked the name of Islam in vain, and perpetrated an affront to all civilised societies. The incident reminds us of the threat that terrorism and extremism, and in particular the danger of self-radicalisation, pose to all societies.
The Australian police and officials acted with great professionalism in dealing with a very difficult situation. I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of innocent lives and injuries in the final outcome. But I have no doubt that they did what they needed to do, and helped to save many lives.
On behalf of the Government and people of Singapore, I offer our deepest condolences to the victims and their loved ones. Singapore stands in solidarity with Australia.
Yours sincerely
LEE HSIEN LOONG
The Hon Tony Abbott MP
Prime Minister
Commonwealth of Australia