ALP LEADER PROFESSOR LALA SHEVKET SEND HER CONDOLENCES ON THE DECEASE OF VACLAV HAVEL TO THE CZECH AMBASSADOR IN BAKU
With the greatest sorrow we have learned about the decease of the former President of the Czech Republic, great writer, great democrat and great person Vaclav Havel. From the bottom of my heart I would like to express to You and in Your person the Czech People my deepest and sincere condolences.

Vaclav Havel's decease is a very sad moment not only for the Czech People, but for all the free-thinking democrats around the world, for his efforts in advancement of democracy can never be overestimated, especially among the nations of the Eastern Europe, which have only recently thrown off the shackles of totalitarianism; totalitarianism, which was so skillfully ridiculed by Havel under the term "Absurdistan".

This vivid personality, a symbol of struggle for democracy and a moral authority, has left his deep mark in the history of fight against totalitarianism and authoritarianism. In his famous essay "The Power of the Powerless" Havel wrote that an active minority in an authoritarian society must always resist. These words have inspired so many dissidents all around the planet to continue their seemingly futile struggle for freedom against all the odds. In the end persistence and adherence to principles and moral values triumph over the forces of evil, as Havel's example shows us clearly.

Vaclav Havel was probably one of the greatest people of our time. His efforts have brought the Czech Republic back to freedom and democracy, led his country to NATO membership and paved way for its EU integration.

The world today has really become much poorer and the heaven has gained a great and pure soul of a man, who will always be remembered, whose place in our hearts can never be erased.

May the Almighty God rest his soul!

With deepest respect,

Prof. Dr. Lala Shevket
Leader of Azerbaijan Liberal Party

18.12.2011