Global perspective Human stories

Annan remembers leadership, personal warmth of former US President Reagan

Annan remembers leadership, personal warmth of former US President Reagan

Ronald Reagan (L) and Javier Perez de Cuellar (UN archives)
Recalling the leadership and resolve in world affairs of Ronald Reagan as well as his personal warmth and humour, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan said today he was saddened to learn of the death of the former President of the United States.

In a statement by his spokesman, Fred Eckhard, Mr. Annan extended his condolences to Mr. Reagan’s wife, Nancy, and to the Government and people of the United States.

“President Reagan will be remembered for his leadership and resolve during a period of momentous change in world affairs, as well as for the warmth, grace and humour with which he conducted affairs of state,” Mr. Annan said.

“The positive and optimistic attitude that he brought to ending long-standing conflicts led to historic agreements on the reduction of nuclear arms as well as advances in peace processes in different parts of the world.”

Mr. Reagan, who died Saturday, served as US President from January 1981 to January 1989.