Secretary-General saddened at death of prime minister of United Arab Emirates

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

The Secretary-General was saddened to learn of the death of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai.  He extends his condolences to the people and Governments of the UAE and of the Emirate.

Sheikh Maktoum ruled Dubai during a crucial era of development, modernization and growth.  He will be remembered for his many years of visionary leadership, which helped build stability and prosperity in the UAE in the midst of dramatic developments in the Gulf region as a whole.  The Secretary-General conveys his support to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, as he prepares to assume the duties of Ruler, and wishes him every courage and fortitude in the years ahead.

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