Ban voices sadness at death of former Cyprus president Glafcos Clerides

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has voiced his sadness at the passing of the former President of Cyprus, Glafcos Clerides, and hailed him as a highly respected statesman.

The former leader died in a hospital in Nicosia on Friday, according to media reports. He was 94.

“Mr. Clerides was a highly respected leader of his country and of the Greek Cypriot community,” said a statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson last night.

“He was known for his strong support for the reunification of Cyprus and for many years played a central role in the UN-facilitated talks aimed at reaching a comprehensive settlement.”

The Secretary-General expressed his condolences to the family of the late Mr. Clerides.