Long-time UN envoy Brahimi honoured by Arab American group in US

Lakhdar Brahimi, the long-time United Nations envoy whose most recent assignment was to help Iraq during the period leading up to the restoration of sovereignty, has been awarded a major prize by an Arab American group in the United States for his commitment to conflict prevention and resolution.

Mr. Brahimi, who prior to Iraq was instrumental in brokering the accord on a post-Taliban Afghanistan, was presented with the 2005 Kahlil Gibran "Spirit of Humanity" Award by the Arab American Institute Foundation yesterday at a gala in Washington, DC.

The prize was created in 1999 by the Institute to honour individuals and organizations that have made a significant and lasting contribution to promoting inclusion, cooperation and greater understanding among people with diverse backgrounds in the United States and throughout the world.

Mr. Brahimi was honoured for his commitment to conflict prevention and resolution, as well as his efforts around the globe to establish free and fair elections. He also was singled out for his exemplary record in promoting the human rights, relief and reconstruction activities of the United Nations and its special missions.

Kahlil Gibran was the author of The Prophet and other works that underscored his respect for the dignity of man, his belief in the sanctity of individual freedom and his universal love of humanity.

Previous honourees include boxing champ Muhammad Ali, Queen Noor of Jordan, rock star Sting, the Ford Motor Company and former Senator George Mitchell.