Secretary-General deeply saddened at loss of life from sinking of Egyptian ferry

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

The Secretary-General was deeply saddened to learn of the sinking of the Egyptian ferry, Al Salam Boccaccio 98, in the Red Sea last night.  The ship, which was en route from Dubah, Saudi Arabia, to Safaga, Egypt, was reportedly carrying approximately 1,400 people.

The Secretary-General sincerely regrets the loss of life due to this tragedy and extends his condolences to the victims and their families.  He urges all who are able, to extend their assistance to the Egyptian Government in the search for survivors.

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For information media • not an official record