Ban Ki-moon Extends Condolences Following Death of Saudi King Abdullah

UNITED NATIONS, January 23 (Sputnik) – According to the UN, Ban "has learnt 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."

UN Secretary General praised King Abdullah's leadership, stating that Saudi Arabia achieved "remarkable progress and prosperity for its people" under his rule. Ban paid tribute to the King's efforts to address regional and international challenges during a time of rapid change, as well as promote dialogue among world's faiths.

According to Ban Ki-moon, King Abdullah left a "tangible legacy" that can point way towards peace in the Middle East.

The President of the UN General Assembly Sam Kahamba Kutesa also offered his condolences to the King's family and the people of Saudi Arabia. "This is a great loss for Saudi Arabia. King Abdullah will be remembered as a remarkable man of peace who leaves a memorable impact on his country and world affairs," Kutesa said, adding that the General Assembly will hold a tribute in memory of the late King Abdullah.

The sixth king of Saudi Arabia Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Saud died at the age of 90, the Saudi Arabian authorities announced on state television Friday. King Abdullah had been suffering from pneumonia and spent several weeks hospitalized.

Salman bin Abdulaziz Saud, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, was named the new king in the statement.