Remarks by H.E. Mr. Peter Thomson, President of the 71st Session of the General Assembly, at the GA Meeting to Honor the Memory of the Late PR of Eritrea
14 October 2016
Excellencies
Secretary-General
Distinguished Delegates
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This morning we are honouring the memory of our dear friend and colleague, H.E. Ambassador Girma Asmeron Tesfay of Eritrea
Many here today knew Ambassador Tesfay personally, and the news of his sudden death has been met with deep sadness.
In life, Ambassador Tesfay made a significant contribution to the United Nations, and many colleagues recall fondly his enthusiastic participation on behalf of his nation, at the signing ceremony for the Paris Climate Agreement here in this very Hall, in April.
Beyond the United Nations, Ambassador Tesfay was a distinguished diplomat who served is country in a wide range of places, including as Permanent Representative to the African Union, Ambassador to Belgium, Canada, Ethiopia, the European Union, South Africa and the United States.
He was a calm, eloquent and charismatic individual, and an extremely accomplished athlete.
On behalf of the General Assembly, I would like to extend to Ambassador Tesfay’s family and loved ones, as well as to the Government and people of Eritrea, our heartfelt condolences.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Thank you