ECOSOC United Nations Economic and Social Counci : Saddened by Passing of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, Secretary-General Praises Leader as ‘Driving Force’ Behind Arab Peace Initiative

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General has learned with sadness of the passing of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud of Saudi Arabia.  The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the bereaved family of King Abdullah, the Government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

King Abdullah made major contributions to the development of the Kingdom.  Under his leadership over many decades in different high-level positions in Government, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia achieved remarkable progress and prosperity for its people.

The Secretary-General pays tribute to King Abdullah's efforts to address regional and international challenges at a time of turmoil and rapid change, and to promote dialogue among the world's faiths.  As the driving force behind the Arab Peace Initiative, King Abdullah left a tangible legacy that can still point the way towards peace in the Middle East.  The Secretary-General is also grateful for King Abdullah's generous humanitarian and developmental support for people across the Arab region and wider world.

King Abdullah's leadership will be remembered throughout the Arab and Islamic worlds and the international community.