Secretary-General, Saddened by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi’s Death, Hails Late

Ethiopian Leader’s Support for United Nations Peacekeeping in Africa

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the death of Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.  He offers his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Government and people of Ethiopia.

Prime Minister Meles will be remembered for his exceptional leadership and advocacy on African issues within and outside the continent, as well as for overseeing his country’s economic growth and development.  The Secretary-General is grateful that Prime Minister Meles administration was a strong supporter of United Nations peacekeeping and peacemaking efforts.  Ethiopian troops participated in several United Nations peacekeeping deployments in Africa, including in Sudan, Liberia and Burundi.

The Secretary-General will remember, in particular, Prime Minister Meles for his active commitment to working with the United Nations on numerous global peace and development challenges, most recently his important role in the ongoing negotiations between Sudan and South Sudan, the Millennium Development Goals and climate change.

At this time of national mourning, the Secretary-General renews the commitment of the United Nations to work alongside the Government and the people of Ethiopia.

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For information media • not an official record