SECRETARY-GENERAL, PROFOUNDLY SAD ABOUT DEATH OF VIET NAM’S FORMER PRIME MINISTER,

SAYS VO VAN KIET WAS MAJOR FORCE BEHIND COUNTRY’S ECONOMIC REFORMS

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General has learned with profound sadness that Vo Van Kiet, former Prime Minister of Viet Nam, passed away today. 

As a major force behind the economic reforms in Viet Nam that started in the late 1980s, Vo Van Kiet paved the way for the country’s transition from poverty to a decade of impressive economic growth.  During his time as Prime Minister from 1991 to 1997, he also played a pivotal role in improving Viet Nam’s diplomatic relations with other countries.

The Secretary-General wishes to convey his heartfelt condolences to the family of Vo Van Kiet, and to the people and the Government of Viet Nam. 

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For information media • not an official record