"I am pleased that for its highly symbolic centenary Nobel Peace Prize, the Nobel Committee has chosen to honour Secretary-General Kofi Annan and the organization he has been serving so faithfully throughout his career.

We can never say enough just how important a role the United Nations have played in humanity’s progress over the last 50 years. Its work on international law, human rights, peace and security have redefined the way the world conducts itself. And it is an article of faith throughout the world that the United Nations have been and remain today an asset to all humanity and the world’s best defence against the forces of chaos.

This has never been more true than under the leadership of Secretary-General Kofi Annan – a man who embodies the values and ideals of the United Nations, and who has devoted his life to the betterment of the organization. Most recently, he has been the driving force and the embodiment of the international community’s response to the HIV/AIDS crisis. He is rebuilding faith in the future of Africa. He is also, through the Brahimi report he commissioned, bringing urgently needed reforms to the UN’s peacekeeping vocation.

As the world enters into one of its greatest struggles, we can only find comfort in the knowledge that the United Nations, its staff and chief officer have been honoured as ambassadors of peace. More than ever, we will need their dedication, competence and humanity to guide and inspire us all."