Clinton sends tribute

The following is a statement issued by Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary of State, Washington D.C
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I offer my deepest condolences to the people of Barbados on the passing of Prime Minister David Thompson.
Barbados has lost a leader and the nations of the Americas have lost a friend and valued partner. Prime Minister Thompson was a champion for democracy and justice in the Caribbean and an advocate for wider prosperity and opportunity throughout the region.
Today my thoughts and prayers are with his wife Mara and their daughters.
Barbados is blessed with strong democratic institutions that will ensure a smooth transition of power, and I am confident that under its new leadership, Barbados’ strong friendship with the United States will continue.