I am profoundly saddened by the passing of Nelson Mandela.

Nelson Mandela was a giant for justice and a down-to-earth human inspiration.

Many around the world were greatly influenced by his selfless struggle for human dignity, equality and freedom. He touched our lives in deeply personal ways.

At the same time, no one did more in our time to advance the values and aspirations of the United Nations.

Nelson Mandela showed what is possible for our world and within each one of us - if we believe, dream and work together for justice and humanity.

His moral force was decisive in dismantling the system of apartheid.

Remarkably, he emerged from 27 years of detention without rancor, determined to build a new South Africa based on dialogue and reconciliation.

I was privileged to meet Nelson Mandela in February 2009. When I thanked him for his life’s work, he insisted the credit belonged to others.

I will never forget his selflessness and deep sense of shared purpose.

On behalf of the United Nations, I extend my deepest condolences to Nelson Mandela’s family, the people of South Africa, and indeed our global family.

Let us continue each day to be inspired by Nelson Mandela’s lifelong example to keep working for a better and more just world.