Kofi Annan’s statement on CMI’s 15th anniversary
Kofi Annan, Chair of the Elders and former Secretary-General of the United Nations, has given a statement about the importance of CMI’s work. Annan’s statement was published today in Finnish in the national daily Helsingin Sanomat together with an in-depth article about CMI’s work.
“I am delighted to congratulate my fellow Elder Martti Ahtisaari and all who work for CMI on its 15th anniversary. CMI is a highly respected organisation in the field of conflict mediation and resolution. It has brought people together to resolve differences, working away from the limelight to bring peace in many quarters of the world. Its belief that every violent conflict can be resolved is a vital corrective against cynicism and fatalism.
As I know from decades of first-hand experience, building trust in external mediation can take years but can be quickly lost. So I certainly hope that CMI will be able to continue making its outstanding and highly valuable contribution to peacemaking and conflict resolution, which reflects so well on Finland’s commitment to international peace and security.”
Kofi Annan – Chair of The Elders
Kofi Annan’s interview with Helsingin Sanomat (in Finnish) http://www.hs.fi/ulkomaat/a1440213238366