SG/SM/9227
                                                                                                                        30 March 2004

Secretary-General Saddened at Death of Sir Peter Ustinov

NEW YORK, 29 March (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan in Bürgenstock, Switzerland:

The Secretary-General was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Sir Peter Ustinov, the actor, writer and humanitarian.

Sir Peter’s exceptional wit, intelligence and creativity were fully matched by his compassion, conscience and character.  Not only did his talents bring joy to millions of people; he served UNICEF with dedication and distinction for more than three decades to bring attention to the needs of children everywhere.  The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the Sir Peter’s wife and family, and joins his admirers around the world in giving thanks for the life of this incurable optimist, remarkable world citizen, and steadfast friend of the United Nations.

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