"Without people like Vaclav Havel, Europe today would be a very different place. As an author, dissident and statesman he always remained faithful to the values of a free and tolerant society. He did not only believe in these principles, he fought for them and made them happen. On this very sad day I should like to express my deepest respect for his artistic and political legacy. My thoughts are with his wife and family, and I should like to express my deepest condolence to the people of the Czech Republic. Today Europe mourns one of its giants."
 

PACE President pays tribute to late Vaclav Havel