The Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, the Honourable Perry G. Christie, has expressed shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident which befell the Space Shuttle Columbia today, as it was enroute to the Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, following its sixteen (16) day scientific mission in space.

According to Prime Minister Christie, the tragedy not only resounds across the United States, but around the world. He spoke in particular of the seven Astronauts who had lost their lives in service, and of their family and friends who would be deeply affected by their unexpected and heartbreaking loss.

Commenting on the Columbia’s scientific mission, Prime Minister Christie said that that the world of science has gained much from the remarkable accomplishments of the Space Programme. He said that this was an opportune time to recognise those brave men and women who risked their lives on the front lines of that Programme.
 
The Prime Minister extended sincere condolences to President George W. Bush and the Government and People of the United States, on behalf of the Government and people of The Bahamas, on this unfortunate and sad occasion. The Prime Minister also extended condolences to the Government and people of Israel, on their loss of the first Israeli to travel in space.
 

Cabinet Office
Nassau, The Bahamas
1 February 2003