The Secretary-General was saddened to learn of the passing of H.E. Mr. Eduard Shevardnadze, who served as President of the Republic of Georgia during the challenging early years of his country's independence.

The Secretary-General recalls Mr. Eduard Shevardnadze’s significant contribution as Foreign Minister of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on the international stage and his efforts to overcome the divisions of the Cold War, including through advocating for nuclear disarmament at the United Nations.   

The Secretary-General extends his sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Mr. Eduard Shevardnadze as well as the Government and people of Georgia.