New York – United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon says he is saddened to learn of the death of Muhammad Ali, who was a UN Messenger of Peace
NAN reports that Ali was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 1998.
Ban in a statement on Saturday in New York, extended his condolences to Ali’s family and the many millions of fans mourning his death in every corner of the world.
He said Ali was far more than a legendary boxer but was a world champion for equality and peace.
“With an incomparable combination of principle, charm, wit and grace, he fought for a better world and used his platform to help lift up humanity,” he said.
The UN chief said that Ali travelled the globe in support of children and others caught up in conflict and to promote reconciliation between people and nations.
Well before taking on this role, Ban said, Ali came to the UN in the 1970s to campaign against apartheid and racial injustice.
The Secretary-General in the statement said that he was honoured to join Ali as a flag bearer at the opening of the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London.
He recalled Ali’s strength, humour and ability to bring people together.
Ban said the UN was grateful to have benefitted from the life and work of one of the past century’s great humanitarians and advocates for understanding and peace.
NAN reports to that Ali, born on Jan.17, 1942, died on Friday at the age of 74.
Early in his career, Ali was known for being an inspiring, controversial and polarizing figure both inside and outside the boxing ring.
He was one of the most recognised sports figures of the past 100 years, crowned “Sportsman of the Century” by Sports Illustrated and “Sports Personality of the Century” by the BBC.
He also wrote several best-selling books about his career, including `The Greatest: My Own Story` and `The Soul of a Butterfly`.(NAN)
