EU's Juncker calls Kofi Annan "great leader and humanitarian"

BRUSSELS - European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker Saturday offered his condolences on the death of former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

"It was with deep sadness that I learnt this morning of the passing of my old friend and inspiration, Kofi Annan. On behalf of myself and the European Commission, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to his wife Nane and his entire family," Juncker said in a statement on Saturday.

Annan, who served as the seventh UN chief for almost ten years from 1997 to 2006, died Saturday at a Swiss hospital. He was awarded a Nobel Prize in 2001, which he shared with the UN.

"Today, the world mourns a great leader and humanitarian but celebrates a life full of courage, empathy and remarkable public service," Juncker said.

"But the greatest recognition we can give Kofi Annan is to keep his legacy and his spirit alive. It has never been more important than in today's world," he said.