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Statement by Ambassador Olof Skoog

Published

Statement by Ambassador Olof Skoog on the death of Zaida Catalán in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 29 March 2017

It is with great sorrow that I have learned that Zaida Catalán, and her U.S. colleague Michael Sharp, have been found dead in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. I share the sense of loss and despair with their families and friends in this difficult time.

Zaida Catalán dedicated her life to peace and justice. She selflessly put her own life in harm's way in order to save others.

As a member of the UN Group of Experts, Zaida Catalán worked tirelessly to contribute to the understanding of the causes of conflict and insecurity in the DRC. We will honor her memory by continuing to support the invaluable work of the Group of Experts and the whole UN family in the DRC.

The circumstances surrounding the fate of Zaida Catalán, her colleagues and the others affected must be thoroughly investigated. The four Congolese citizens that remain unaccounted for must be found. Sweden fully supports the further investigations into this incident by the UN and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure that the facts are established, and that those responsible are held to account.

Contact

Lisa Laskaridis
Head of Press and Communication, Permanent Mission of Sweden to the UN
Phone +1 212 583 2543
Mobile +1 917 239 0941
email to Lisa Laskaridis
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