Guterres hails late Viet Nam President as ‘Friend of the United Nations’

The General Assembly observes a moment of silence in tribute to the memory of Tran Dai Quang, late President of Viet Nam.

On behalf of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, issued a statement on Friday, expressing the UN chief’s sadness over the passing of Viet Nam President Tran Dai Quang.

“He presents his deepest sympathies to the President’s family and to the Government and people of Viet Nam,” Mr. Dujarric said. 

According to media reports, the 61-year-old died in a military hospital in Hanoi from a "serious illness” despite the efforts of domestic and international doctors.

“A friend of the United Nations and an important promoter of Viet Nam’s development, President Quang will be long remembered in his country and beyond,” he concluded.

The General Assembly also observeb a moment of silence in tribute to the memory of Tran Dai Quang, late President of Viet Nam.