I learned tonight, with profound sadness, of passing of Kofi Annan, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations. He rose through the ranks of UN to lead the organization into the new millennium with matchless dignity and determination.

Kofi Annan was a force for world peace and strong advocate for human rights of all. He never stopped working to give life to the values of the United Nations Charter. He provided people everywhere with a space for dialogue, a place for problem-solving and a path to a better world. His legacy will remain a true inspiration for all us.

My heartfelt condolences to his family, and all who mourn the loss of this global champion for peace and all humanity.