SG/SM/8863

11 September 2003

SECRETARY-GENERAL SHOCKED TO LEARN OF
ATTACK ON FOREIGN MINISTER OF SWEDEN

NEW YORK, 10 September (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General was shocked and distressed to learn of the brutal attack on Anna Lindh, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden -- a personal friend of the Secretary-General and a steadfast supporter of the United Nations.  He prays for Ms. Lindh’s early recovery, and wishes her family and loved ones courage and fortitude.  The Secretary-General sends his fond wishes to the people and Government of Sweden at this painful time, and hopes that the person responsible for this senseless act will be found and brought to justice as soon as possible.

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