Annan extends condolences to Turkmenistan’s people after death of President Niyazov

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today extended condolences to the people of Turkmenistan on the death of President Saparmurat Niyazov and paid tribute to his contribution to UN peace efforts in Tajikistan and Afghanistan.

“The Secretary-General has learned of the sudden death of Turkmen President Saparmurat Atayevich Niyazov. President Niyazov made important contributions to United Nations peace processes in Tajikistan and Afghanistan,” Mr. Annan said in a statement issued by his spokesman.

“The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the family of the late President and people of Turkmenistan.”

The Central Asian state of Turkmenistan, which borders Afghanistan, has also played a role in UN humanitarian assistance efforts to its strife-torn neighbour.