In a statement issued by the White House yesterday, U.S. President George W. Bush expressed deep sorrow over the death of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz, describing him as a friend of the United States, “a man of wisdom and a leader who commanded respect throughout the entire world”. The U.S. State Department also issued a statement, referring to King Fahd as a friend of the United States who played an essential role in regional and world events.

Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan paid tribute yesterday to King Fahd, praising his contributions in the field of international and regional diplomacy. King Fahd, he said, was “firmly guided by the principles and traditions of Islam" and will be remembered “with profound respect in the Islamic, Arab and world communities".

The United Nations' General Assembly will hold a special session at some future date honoring Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd bin Abdulaziz, with observance of a moment of silence and speeches by delegates of member states. Today, the UN flag is at half-mast in honor of the late King.

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