UNITED NATIONS, April 6 (UPI) -- U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan Wednesday expressed sadness over the death of Prince Rainier of Monaco.
In a statement issued by his chief spokesman, Fred Eckhard, Annan Wednesday paid his respects to Rainer, whom he described as one of the world's longest-serving monarchs and heads of state.
"He expresses his deepest condolences to Prince Albert, Princess Caroline, Princess Stephanie and their families, as well as to all the people of Monaco," the spokesman said of Annan. "Throughout his 55-year reign, and all the changes the country underwent during that time, Prince Rainier remained dearly loved by his people, and deeply respected by his peers as well as the world community.
"The secretary-general wishes Prince Albert every courage and fortitude as he succeeds his father at the helm of the principality," Eckhard added.
