Sheikh Hasina sends condolences over the death of ex-UN chief Kofi Annan

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed her deep shock at the sudden passing of former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.

"We are deeply saddened at the sudden demise of Kofi Annan, former secretary general of the United Nations and Nobel Peace laureate,” she said in a condolence message.

“He dedicated his life for global peace, development and for ensuring human rights across the world. His departure will create a vacuum among the elders to stand for the oppressed, the victims of climate change and for global peace.”

The prime minister said the people of Bangladesh will always honour his memory for standing by their efforts to promote democracy and economic development.

Annan also offered support for Bangladesh’s contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, she said.

Hasina also praised his efforts on various difficult international issues, such as the Rohingya crisis.

“I convey my deepest sorrow for the loss of a leader, who never shied away from taking any difficult challenge,” she said.

“He took up the arduous task of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State with utmost sincerity. His work as the Chair of the Commission has brought the plight of the Rohingyas into light and offered sustainable pragmatic solutions. He will always be remembered for his support to the forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals and the population whom he addressed in the report of the Advisory Commission.”

Hasina offered her sincere condolences to Annan’s family and colleagues.