UNITED NATIONS — The United Nations on Friday saluted outgoing Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for his distinguished career and his constructive engagement with the world body.
Abe announced Friday that he would step down for health reasons. He would remain in office until his successor is chosen by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. “The (UN) secretary-general has been following the situation. He wishes Prime Minister Abe a full recovery, and we salute the Prime Minister’s distinguished career as the longest-serving Japanese prime minister and his consistent and constructive engagement with the UN to address global challenges,” said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
The secretary-general has had a very productive relationship with Abe. They have worked closely on a number of issues, notably, on the universal health care initiatives, said the spokesman.
