The telegram said, in part:
“I would like to express my sincere condolences for the death of Thor Heyerdahl, a great son of Norway, a humane man and a great friend of our country. His outstanding research on the marine environment and innovative contributions to ethnography and archaeology have by right found their way into the golden treasure trove of world science.
“The unparalleled curiosity and unorthodox thinking so typical of Thor Heyerdahl, his persistence in achieving the goals set, will be a source of inspiration for many generations of scientists.
“The best monument to Thor Heyerdahl will be the new horizons of understanding he opened up about the history of human civilisation and capabilities of mankind.
“Please convey my sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased.”