Annan Was Global Champion, Guiding Force for Good, Says UN Chief KOFIANNAN-GUTERRES

United Nations, Aug 18 (PTI) UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres today condoled the passing of his predecessor Kofi Annan, saying he was "a guiding force for good" and a "global champion" who led the world body into the new millennium with matchless dignity and determination.

Annan, 80, was the 7th Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006. He died today. He was the first Secretary-General to reach the post from within an organisation he served for over 40 years. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001.

Annan was a "guiding force for good….In many ways, Kofi Annan was the United Nations. He rose through the ranks to lead the organisation into the new millennium with matchless dignity and determination," Guterres said in his message on the passing of Annan.

He said Annan was a good friend and mentor and he was deeply honoured by his trust in selecting him to serve as UN High Commissioner for Refugees under his leadership.

"He provided people everywhere with a space for dialogue, a place for problem-solving and a path to a better world. In these turbulent and trying times, he never stopped working to give life to the values of the United Nations Charter. His legacy will remain a true inspiration for all us," Guterres said as he expressed condolences Annan's family and all who mourn the loss of "this proud son of Africa who became a global champion for peace and all humanity".

The Elders, an independent group of leaders using their collective experience and influence for peace, justice and human rights worldwide, also expressed shock and sadness over Annan's death.

Annan was Chair of the group, which was founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007. Annan had succeeded Archbishop Desmond Tutu as Chair of the group in May 2013. The group said Annan had a life-long commitment to the cause of peace and was known for his staunch opposition to military aggression, notably the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.

"We are devastated at the loss of our dear friend and fellow Elder. Kofi was a strong and inspiring presence to us all, and The Elders would not be where it is today without his leadership," Deputy Chair of The Elders Gro Harlem Brundtland said.

"Throughout his life, Kofi worked unceasingly to improve the lives of millions of people around the world. While we mourn his passing today, we resolve as Elders to continue to uphold his values and legacy into the future, Brundtland said.

In retirement, Annan had continued working for the United Nations, founding and leading the work of the Kofi Annan Foundation, based in Geneva, and maintaining a hectic international schedule.

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