The Secretary-General was saddened to learn of the death of Horst Köhler, the former President of the Federal Republic of Germany.  Former President Köhler was a champion of the United Nations, deeply committed to global partnerships, sustainable development and creating new perspectives for youth in Africa.  He served as the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy on Western Sahara from 2017 to 2019, during which he sought to help resolve the long-standing conflict there. 

The Secretary-General extends his sincere condolences to the family of former President Köhler, as well as the Government and people of Germany.