On Friday, a UN spokesman was asked about comments on Mr. Pronk’s blog as well as reports that Sudan was declaring him persona non grata. Spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the views expressed on the blog were personal, and that the Government had presented no official request concerning Mr. Pronk.

Today, in a statement released in New York, the spokesman said Mr. Annan had this morning received a letter from the Government of Sudan requesting Mr. Pronk’s withdrawal.

“The Secretary-General is reviewing the letter and has, in the meantime, requested Mr. Pronk to come to New York for consultations,” Mr. Dujarric said.