Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper today telephoned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and expressed his condolences on the passing of Prof. Ben-Zion Netanyahu.

Earlier, Russian President-elect Vladimir Putin sent the Prime Minister a condolence letter in which he wrote: "I sincerely share your pain and grief.  I wish you and your relatives courage and firmness at this heavy hour."  Outgoing Russian President Dmitry Medvedev  also send a condolence letter in which he wrote: "Please accept my sincerest condolences on this great loss.  Bereavement of relatives is irretrievable, but they will forever remain in our memory, in the hearts of loving friends and family members."  Both letters were delivered by Russian Ambassador to Israel Sergei Yakovlev.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy wrote to Prime Minister Netanyahu: "I acknowledge the magnitude of the loss of a figure who played such a central role in your life, from your birth until reaching the premiership.  He was always at your side, in good times and bad, throughout your exceptional career.  Dear Benjamin, I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to you and your family, as well as my feelings of deepest esteem and friendship toward you."  The letter was delivered by French Ambassador to Israel Cristoph Bigot.

UK Ambassador to Israel Matthew Gould delivered a condolence letter from UK Prime Minister David Cameron in which the latter wrote: "I know how much strength and guidance you drew from your father.  I am sure he was immensely proud that his son has grown up to lead the modern Israel he so passionately helped create."