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 You are in: Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs > Bureau of Public Affairs > Bureau of Public Affairs: Press Relations Office > Press Releases (Other) > 2002 > July 
Press Statement
Richard Boucher, Spokesman
Washington, DC
July 18, 2002


Death of Dr. Joseph Luns, Former NATO Secretary-General

We note with sadness the passing of Dr. Joseph Luns, who served with distinction both as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands and as NATO Secretary-General.

Dr. Luns will be remembered with fondness and respect for his commitment to transatlantic partnership and his belief in the NATO Alliance as the bridge between the United States and Europe.

From 1971 to 1984, his resolute leadership at NATO helped guide the Alliance through the Cold War and toward the promise of a new era in Euro-Atlantic cooperation. His long service as Secretary-General reflected the confidence, support, and implicit trust of all NATO member states.

As NATO now confronts new threats in the 21st century, it will continue to draw strength from the foundations laid by leaders like Dr. Luns.

We send our deepest sympathies to his friends and family and remain committed to pursuing the promise of a Europe whole, free, and at peace - a vision Dr. Luns shared and to which he dedicated his life.


Released on July 18, 2002

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