United Nations Secretary-General Antَnio Guterres announced today the appointment of Horst Kِhler, former President of Germany, as his Personal Envoy for Western Sahara. 


The new Personal Envoy succeeds Christopher Ross of the United States who completed his assignment on 30 April 2017. The Secretary-General is grateful for Mr. Ross' tireless efforts and dedication to facilitate negotiations between the parties in order to achieve a just, durable and mutually acceptable political solution, which would provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. 


Mr. Kِhler brings more than 35 years of experience in government and international organizations, including as President of Germany (2004-2010), Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C. (2000-2004), and President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in London (1998-2000). 


Further, he served as State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Finance (1990-1993) before being appointed President of the German Savings Bank Association (1993

Source: NNA