SECRETARY-GENERAL’S STATEMENT ON DEATH OF DANIEL PEARL

SECRETARY-GENERAL’S STATEMENT ON DEATH OF DANIEL PEARL

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

The Secretary-General was deeply saddened by reports of the death of journalist Daniel Pearl of The Wall Street Journal.  He extends personal condolences to Mr. Pearl’s wife, family, colleagues and all others touched by this loss.

This crime highlights yet again the enormous dangers encountered by journalists, particularly in areas of conflict and violence.  The Secretary-General salutes the courage of Mr. Pearl and his colleagues around the world, and reiterates his long-standing commitment to the right of journalists to carry out their vital work without fearing for their security, freedom or life.  Where that right is threatened, all of us are placed at risk.

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