The Consulate of the Czech Republic and the Czech Community in Malta are mourning the passing away of their former president Vaclav Havel, who died on Sunday.

He was a great statesman and in the eyes of the whole world his name was synonymous with that of the Czech Republic

The consulate said Mr Havel was a fighter for human rights and democracy as well as a distinguished playwright.

“He was a great statesman and in the eyes of the whole world his name was synonymous with that of the Czech Republic. President Havel was a great Czech national who stood up against the Communist regime and suffered ill health due to the many years he spent in prison.”

His reward was his country’s freedom from Communist oppression and his appointmentas the first President of the Czech Republic.

The Consulate also recalled President Havel’s state visit to Malta and his long-standing friendship with the late President Guido de Marco.

Following the official visit in 2002, President Havel had spent a few days of rest as guest of President and Mrs de Marco at San Anton Palace.

A book of condolences will be opened at the Consulate of the Czech Republic today between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Nationalist Party paid tribute President Havel, describing him as an example to not only his country but to the world. The PN described him as an inspiration who through his writings contributed to political thought over the last few years.