KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Leader Dr Peter Phillips says the world has lost one of the defining figures of the international community of modern time in the death of former Secretary General of the United Nations (UN) Kofi Annan.

“Annan exemplified the quiet dignity and intellectual strength that defined and fueled global changes and brought a new level of understanding to international relations,” Phillps said in a statement from the People’s National Party (PNP).

He noted that Annan, a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, played a pivotal role in addressing crises which have shaped the world, from the HIV/Aids pandemic, to the Iraq War and, latterly, climate change.

The Opposition leader said that Annan’s famous quote “suffering anywhere concerns people everywhere” speaks volumes to the heart and soul of the late world leader.

“He was the first black African to head the United Nations and was one of the most enduring and recognised diplomats in modern history.

“He was Secretary General of the UN for ten years and still today, he is one of the best known and more effective Secretaries General of our time,” Phillips continued.

The PNP said Annan was a friend of Jamaica who visited the island on many occasions and was the consummate diplomat and a man who was committed to programmes that sought to improve the lives of vulnerable and oppressed people globally.

“On behalf of myself and the entire People’s National Party, I extend condolences to Mr Annan’s family, colleagues and join with the rest of the world in mourning the loss of a great man,” said Phillips.