Statement by H.E. Mr. Miroslav Laj?ák,?President of the 72nd Session of the?General Assembly on the passing of former Secretary-General Kofi Annan
I am deeply saddened to learn of?the passing of former Secretary-General Kofi Annan,?one of the world’s most?respected diplomats, an extraordinary?statesman, and a visionary champion for multilateralism.?The?Nobel Peace Prize laureate was a strong?believer in dialogue and deeply committed?defender of?peace, development and human rights.
He dedicated his life to making the world a better, more peaceful, and just place for all people.And in many ways, he is a symbol for the shared values of the United Nations.
Like so?many among us, I considered Kofi Annan a role model?and a mentor. During my time with the Secretary-General?s Special Envoys for the Balkans, Eduard Kukan and Carl Bildt, I had the honour to work closely?with him. Since then, I have admired his wise and steadfast leadership, acumen and charisma.
I would like to express my sincere condolences to his family and friends, the people of Ghana and Africa, and all who mourn the loss of this remarkable man. Let us continue to be inspired by his lifelong example.
New York, 18 August 2018