SECRETARY-GENERAL'S MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCES OVER PASSING AWAY OF DENG XIAOPING

Press Release
SG/SM/6161

SECRETARY-GENERAL'S MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCES OVER PASSING AWAY OF DENG XIAOPING

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary- General Kofi Annan:

It is with deep sorrow that the Secretary-General has just learned of the passing away of Deng Xiaoping, the paramount leader of China.

Deng Xiaoping has indelibly stamped his mark on this most recent and vibrant period of China's long history. He will be remembered, not just in his own country, which he so faithfully served for so long, but also in the international community at large as a primary architect of China's modernization and dramatic economic development. Through his dedicated leadership, he brought about major reforms that have improved the lives of so many of his fellow citizens immeasurably. This achievement will undoubtedly be seen by many to be his greatest legacy.

The Secretary-General wishes to extend to the family Deng Xiaoping and to the Government and people of China his most profound condolences for this tragic loss.

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