Japan-United States of America Relations

Statement by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
on the Passing of Barbara Pierce Bush, the Former First Lady of the United States

April 18, 2018

I was deeply saddened upon hearing about the passing of Mrs. Barbara Pierce Bush, former First Lady of the United States. I extend my deep condolences to her bereaved families, including the 41st U.S. President George H.W. Bush and 43rd U.S. President George W. Bush as well as to the Government and the people of the United States.
As the First Lady of the 41st U.S. President George H.W. Bush, Mrs. Barbara Bush devotedly supported the President. She visited Japan twice with the President and contributed to further strengthening the amicable Japan-U.S. relationship. She was also widely loved by the people of the United States for her devotion to such causes as fighting HIV and leukemia as well as promoting education.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I offer my sincerest condolences on the passing of the former First Lady.