Press Releases 2006

Ambassador Ashe Expresses Condolences After the Tragedy Near Katowice

29 January 2006

Mr. Lech Kaczynski
President of the Polish Republic
Warsaw

Dear Mr. President:

On behalf of President Bush and the American people, I wish to express my deepest condolences for the tragic loss of life that occured yesterday near Katowice when the roof at an exhibition hall collapsed.

The thoughts and prayers of my country will be with the family members of those killed, as well as with those injured. As a symbol of our solidarity with the Polish nation, the flags at the American Embassy and the Consulate General in Krakow have been lowered for the three days of national mourning.

The Polish search and rescue team on the scene of the tragedy has an international reputation as one of the best in the world, but if there is any way that my Government may be of assistance, the United States of America stands ready to extend its support.