The message reads, in part:
"It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Galina Vishnevskaya.
"She was a great opera singer whose life was inextricably linked with Russia and its national culture, which she embodied for millions of people.
"Ms Vishnevskaya was an unquestioned authority on the Russian school of opera. She performed on the most prestigious of world stages and trained talented young singers for many years. Ms Vishnevskaya established the Opera Centre, which, I'm sure, will preserve her unique creative legacy.
"We will always cherish her memory.
"Please accept my sincere condolences."