Tributes for former US president Bush

WASHINGTON: Tributes have poured for former US president George HW Bush following his death on Friday at the age of 94. Here are excerpts of messages from the worlds of politics, business and Hollywood:

‘Best dad’

“George HW Bush was a man of the highest character and the best dad a son or daughter could ask for.” - His son, former president George W Bush

‘Faith, family and country’ “Through his essential authenticity, disarming wit, and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and country, President Bush inspired generations of his fellow Americans to public service.”- US President Donald Trump

An unlikely friendship

“I am profoundly grateful for every minute I spent with President Bush and will always hold our friendship as one of my life’s greatest gifts.” Former US president Bill Clinton, who defeated Bush in the 1992 election

‘True partner’

“We had the chance to work together during the time of enormous changes. And this was a dramatic time which called for huge responsibility from everyone. The result was the end of the Cold War and the arms race... He was a true partner.” Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev

‘Noble, joyous calling’ “George HW Bush’s life is a testament to the notion that public service is a noble, joyous calling. (...) It’s a legacy of service that may never be matched, even though he’d want all of us to try.” Former US president Barack Obama

‘Example to us all’ “President George HW Bush’s ethos of public service was the guiding thread of his life and an example to us all. (...) Today Britain remembers a great statesman and a true friend of our country.” British Prime Minister Theresa May

‘Lifelong friend’

“I feel privileged to have worked with him, and even more privileged that he became a lifelong friend. He was, quite simply, one of the most deep down decent people I have ever known.” -Former British prime minister John Major