Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, on Wednesday paid glowing tribute to the former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Atta Annan, saying, the world distinguished diplomat affected the world positively and his legacy would be continued.
She downplayed concerns raised by a section of the public that the casket containing the mortal remains of Kofi Annan was not opened for viewing, saying "we're respecting his wishes and seeing the body will not add anything to us".
She said Ghanaians should rather reflect on the values he stood for and the impact he made on humanity.
She said Kofi Annan fought tirelessly for global peace, human rights and reduction of poverty, adding that, even when he retired from the UN, and was advanced in age he continued serving humanity without any excuse.
She urged both the old and the younger generations to emulate the lifestyle and diplomatic traits of Mr Annan, who served humanity with integrity and humility, saying "his calm nature has impacted on my life greatly, especially those of us in diplomatic circles"
She noted that the late Annan was a colossus global peace icon, who led the global body with distinction and encouraged the youth to let the feat chalked by Kofi Annan to inspire them to greater heights.
Madam Ayorkor Botchway made the remarks in an interview with the media at the Accra International Conference Centre on Wednesday, where the mortal remains of Ghana's illustrious son is lying-in-state for viewing by high profile dignitaries, including Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Ministers of State, Diplomats, Members of Parliament, traditional rulers and organized groups.
Kofi Annan was described as a "global peace icon and statesman" who brokered peace in turbulent countries during his stewardship of the global body. The legacy of Annan should be kept alive for both the present and future generation, "Madam Botchway said.
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